lotion

American  

[loh-shuhn] / ˈloʊ ʃən /

noun

1. Pharmacology. a liquid, usually aqueous or sometimes alcoholic preparation containing insoluble material in the form of a suspension or emulsion, intended for external application without rubbing, in such skin conditions as itching, infection, allergy, pain, or the like.

2. a liquid cosmetic, usually containing agents for soothing or softening the skin, especially that of the face or hands.

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lotion British  

/ ˈləʊʃən /

noun

1. a liquid preparation having a soothing, cleansing, or antiseptic action, applied to the skin, eyes, etc

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Etymology

Origin of lotion

1350–1400; Middle English locion < Latin lōtiōn- (stem of lōtiō ) a washing. See lotic, -ion

Example Sentences

During perimenopause—the period of time that can last years, before a woman’s menstrual cycle ends—dropping estrogen levels can thin and dry skin, he said, and suggested that I put lotion on before bed.

From The Wall Street Journal

Scabies is not usually serious but does need to be treated, normally by applying an over-the-counter cream or lotion to the entire body, with the treatment repeated seven days later.

From BBC

Doc pointed at a fresh towel and washcloth, a toothbrush still in the packaging, a bottle of soap, lotion, and a stick of deodorant.

From Literature

To illustrate the point, Skye brings freebies to family gatherings: drinks and snacks for her cousins, lotion and hair products for her grandmothers.

From The Wall Street Journal

He wasn’t sure if it was shampoo, body spray, lotion, or what.

From Literature

Related Words

• balm
• cosmetic
• cream
• ointment
• salve