lotion

noun

lo·​tion ˈlō-shən 

: a liquid preparation for cosmetic or external medicinal use

Examples of lotion in a Sentence

a bottle of suntan lotion

Recent Examples on the Web

Does not include body lotions, body moisturizers, makeup, hair, nail or fragrance. 1. —Noor Lobad, WWD, 3 Dec. 2024

Korres Vanilla Cinnamon Body Set This body wash and lotion set is a foolproof gift for just about anyone. —Nicola Fumo, People.com, 1 Dec. 2024

Kristen, 26, a college student and stay-at-home mother of two daughters, asked Santa for some basics: a blanket, shampoo, lotion and soap. —Susan Miller, USA TODAY, 18 Nov. 2024

Creams are preferred during the dry winter months because of their higher oil content and thicker texture, while lotions are formulated with higher water content and feel more lightweight. —Stephanie Saltzman, Allure, 21 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English loscion, from Latin lotion-, lotio act of washing, from lavere to wash — more at lye

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

lotion

noun

lo·​tion ˈlō-shən 

: a liquid preparation for use as a cosmetic or as a medicine on the outside of the body

Etymology

from Latin lotion-, lotio "act of washing," from lotus, past participle of lavere "to wash" — related to laundry, lavatory, lavish

Medical Definition

lotion

noun

lo·​tion ˈlō-shən 

1

: a liquid usually aqueous medicinal preparation containing one or more insoluble substances and applied externally for skin disorders

2

: a liquid cosmetic preparation usually containing a cleansing, softening, or astringent agent and applied to the skin

hand lotion

aftershave lotion