lotion

noun

lo·​tion ˈlō-shən How to pronounce lotion (audio)
Synonyms of lotionnext
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
So, for ease of use and to avoid parching your skin, Queen recommends looking for one product — typically a lotion or cream — that delivers both retinol and hydrating ingredients, like glycerin, hyaluronic, ceramides or shea butter. — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 26 Oct. 2026 Look for creamy, lotion-like formulas, hydrating ingredients (such as humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid), and barrier-supporting actives like ceramides and squalane. — Sheryl George, Allure, 26 Oct. 2026 While some sunscreen lotions may pool in fine lines and wrinkles and leave a white cast in the creases—needless to say, not a desirable result—this drugstore gem has a lightweight texture that melts into the skin. — Christa Joanna Lee, Glamour, 23 Oct. 2026 After that came fluffy soft white towels, a good hand soap, lotion, mouthwash and cleaning up after those manscaping sessions all ended up as her green flags. — Sean Joseph Outkick, FOXNews.com, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lotion

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of lotion was in the 15th century

Rhymes for lotion

See All Rhymes for lotion

Browse Nearby Words

lotiform
lotion
lotio nigra
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lotion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lotion. Accessed 29 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lotion

noun
lo·​tion ˈlō-shən How to pronounce lotion (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce lotion (audio)
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

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