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⇱ LOTION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

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: 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.
However, the user should not abandon SPF lotion for a UV-blocking umbrella. β€”πŸ‘ Image
Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 2 Apr. 2026 Topical products like creams, lotions and balms can still be sold as well, along with non-intoxicating CBD products that fall within the legal threshold. β€”πŸ‘ Image
Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 Mar. 2026 Phthalates also help lubricate substances and carry fragrances in personal care products, including deodorants; nail polishes; perfumes; hair gels, sprays or shampoos; soaps; and body lotions. β€”πŸ‘ Image
Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 31 Mar. 2026 The March 30 post, shared by user u/ParmoForTea, includes a slideshow of images showing a bottle of baby lotion. β€”πŸ‘ Image
Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lotion

Word History

Etymology

Middle English loscion, from Latin lotion-, lotio act of washing, from lavere to wash β€” 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

β€œLotion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lotion. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

: 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" β€” related to laundry, lavatory, lavish

Medical Definition

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

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