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

However, the user should not abandon SPF lotion for a UV-blocking umbrella. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 2 Apr. 2026

Topical products like creams, lotions and balms can still be sold as well, along with non-intoxicating CBD products that fall within the legal threshold. —Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 Mar. 2026

Phthalates also help lubricate substances and carry fragrances in personal care products, including deodorants; nail polishes; perfumes; hair gels, sprays or shampoos; soaps; and body lotions. —Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 31 Mar. 2026

The March 30 post, shared by user u/ParmoForTea, includes a slideshow of images showing a bottle of baby lotion. —Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2026

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

Rhymes for lotion

• notion
• ocean
• potion
• commotion
• demotion
• devotion
• emotion
• laotian
• promotion
• locomotion

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