lotion

American  

[loh-shuhn] / ˈloʊ ʃən /

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 British  

/ ˈləʊʃən /

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of lotion

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

Example Sentences

Originally used in 16th-century England to describe a new idea in philosophy or religion, the term can be used to define almost anything, from a new sunscreen lotion to an mRNA vaccine.

From The Wall Street Journal

During perimenopause—the period of time that can last years, before a woman’s menstrual cycle ends—dropping estrogen levels can thin and dry skin, he said, and suggested that I put lotion on before bed.

From The Wall Street Journal

Scabies is not usually serious but does need to be treated, normally by applying an over-the-counter cream or lotion to the entire body, with the treatment repeated seven days later.

From BBC

Doc pointed at a fresh towel and washcloth, a toothbrush still in the packaging, a bottle of soap, lotion, and a stick of deodorant.

From Literature

To illustrate the point, Skye brings freebies to family gatherings: drinks and snacks for her cousins, lotion and hair products for her grandmothers.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• balm
• cosmetic
• cream
• ointment
• salve