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

Everyone infected needs to be treated at the same time with a cream or lotion from the pharmacy, doctors say.

From BBC

Customers there are greeted by rows and rows of shelved items — makeup, chips, baby formula, paper towels, lotion and juice — that are locked behind plexiglass.

From Los Angeles Times

And just a whiff of bay rum aftershave lotion.

From Literature

The cabin smelled of bay rum aftershave lotion.

From Literature

The shower products are all lemon-scented, and the body lotion is a strong rose that takes me several strokes to blend into my skin.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• balm
• cosmetic
• cream
• ointment
• salve