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

Originally used in 16th-century England to describe a new idea in philosophy or religion, the term can be used to define almost anything, from a new sunscreen lotion to an mRNA vaccine.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 28, 2026

When his dad’s balance from his personal allowance started to go over the limit, Murguia had to use it to buy things such as shampoo and body lotion.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 14, 2025

She says the current trend to create tan lines by burning in the sun, coupled with false claims that suntan lotion is responsible for the very cancer it's trying to prevent is a "perfect storm".

From BBC • Aug. 3, 2025

“We had a few families that had children with eczema, and they needed a certain kind of lotion, and we were able to give out gift cards for that,” said organizer Brandon Lamar.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 9, 2025

I slopped hand lotion all over my hands and then on my face and legs, even my arms and elbows.

From "Jacob Have I Loved" by Katherine Paterson

Related Words

• balm
• cosmetic
• cream
• ointment
• salve