lotion

[ loh-shuhn ]

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.

lotion

/ ˈləʊʃən /

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of lotion¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of lotion¹

C14: via Old French from Latin lōtiō a washing, from lōtus past participle of lavāre to wash

Example Sentences

Growing interest in skincare and self-care—along with the closure of many salons and spas—has meant significant increases in sales of soaps, lotions, fragrances, hair appliances, candles, and other beauty products.

From Quartz

Having hand lotion readily available at all times will make things easier.

From Popular-Science

Using shaving lotion or electric pre-shave lotion will get you closer to the skin, while diligent cleaning of the machine and keeping it fully charged to ensure maximum power when in use will help decrease the length of residual stubble.

From Popular-Science

So if you’re already lathering up those rosy cheeks once or twice a day as part of your skincare routine, make sure you apply a moisturizer made for your skin type afterward—heavier creams for dry skin, lighter gel-based lotions for oily skin.

From Popular-Science

So, this firm may know that demand for lotion just naturally happens to be higher during winter months.

From Freakonomics

Five members of FFF, two women and three men, are hunched over her, applying lotion to every inch of her exposed flesh.

From The Daily Beast

Similar to fixating on the bottle of lotion while sitting in lockup, I kept asking after my notepad.

From The Daily Beast

Those who have long hair are to brush it till the skin beneath becomes red, when a lotion is to be applied, as here specified.

From Project Gutenberg

No, it won't, not of itself; but I have got a capital lotion for bruises, and I shall bathe it for you.

From Project Gutenberg

It is most frequently employed externally, under the form of a plaster, ointment, or lotion.

From Project Gutenberg

He bathed the wound with a lotion, replaced the bandages, and then wandered restlessly about the room.

From Project Gutenberg

He gave me no medicine, except some digestive pills four days ago, and a lotion for my ears.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• balm
• cosmetic
• cream
• ointment
• salve