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

That would likely mean daily baths and massages, too: The assortment is mushroom-powered and offers bath essentials, massage creams, facial serums and lotions, and more. —Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 27 Mar. 2025

This fragrance-free lotion restores dry skin without feeling greasy and comes in two sizes, 12 ounces and 19 ounces, and both sizes are under $20. —Jacquelyn Smith, Parents, 21 Mar. 2025

The industry has also faced growing competition from alternatives like spray tans and tanning lotions. —Bailey Schulz, USA TODAY, 8 Mar. 2025

With over 14,000 five-star ratings on Amazon and with over 800 rave reviews from customers, this Aveeno lotion lives up the hype. —Kayleigh Drake, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025

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