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.
The result is an unusually fluid lotion that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy film. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 6 Sep. 2026 Always follow up your scrub with a hydrating moisturizer or body lotion to help skin recover and retain moisture. — Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 2 Sep. 2026 But beyond tackling dryness and dehydration, more active body lotions have ingredients—like peptides and retinol—that target specific concerns associated with aging skin. — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2026 Activscience Neck-Firming Cream The lotion is rich in anti-aging ingredients, such as collagen to add plumpness and hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and radiance. — Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 30 Aug. 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 7 Sep. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on lotion

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for lotion

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