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

Maack prefers unscented lotion such as Agent Nateur but other popular lotions include L’Occitane almond range, EOS range and most recently launched the Eccentric Molecules body lotions. —Bea McMonagle, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

The brand recommends using the lotion at least five days a week and spraying it 14 times with each application. —Jenny Berg, Allure, 23 Oct. 2024

Try a scented body lotion or deodorant along with your usual eau de parfum. —Philipp Wehsack, Vogue, 17 Oct. 2024

Best Lotion Photograph: Kristin Canning Sawyer 20 Percent DEET Premium Family Insect Repellent Controlled Release $14 at Amazon The DEET stink is still there, but the lotion formula feels more pleasant and less greasy to me than most sprays. —Kristin Canning, WIRED, 14 Oct. 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