<DefinitionAndReference>
  <Element Id="lo_SmokingCessationProgramYears">
    <definition>Smoking cessation program years.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ThirdPartyAsCoDefendant">
    <definition>Third Party As Co Defendant.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CasesConcludedInFlightAttendantCases">
    <definition>Cases concluded in Flight Attendant Cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_RatioForEachShareAsResultOfStockSplit">
    <definition>Ratio for each share as a result of stock split.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_TotalJudicialInterestAmount">
    <definition>Total Judicial Interest amount in Scott Case.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CapOnPlaintiffsAttorneysFeesPaidByDomesticTobaccoIndustry">
    <definition>Cap on plaintiffs attorneys fees paid by domestic tobacco industry.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FormerParentAsCodefendantInUSCourts">
    <definition>Former parent as co-defendant in US Courts.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_IntercompanyPayables">
    <definition>Intercompany payables.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_SalariesAndOtherCompensation">
    <definition>Salaries and other compensation.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherReceivables">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInitiationDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeBasisSpreadOnVariableRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_OfferToRepurchaseNotesUponControlTriggeringEvent">
    <definition>Offer To Repurchase Notes Upon Control Triggering Event.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ConsumerRebates">
    <definition>Consumer rebates</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ExchangeForSharesOfCompanysCommonStock">
    <definition>Exchange for shares of the Company's common stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_VerdictReturnedForOtherCigaretteManufacturers">
    <definition>Verdict returned for other cigarette manufacturers.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AmountClaimedToRecoverProfitsEarnedByDefendants">
    <definition>Amount claimed to recover profits earned by defendants.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_EquityInEarningsOfSubsidiaries">
    <definition>Equity in earnings of subsidiaries.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ReimbursementCasesPendingAgainstSubsidiaryCompanyAndOtherCigaretteManufacturersInIsrael">
    <definition>Reimbursement Cases pending against Lorillard Tobacco and other cigarette manufacturers in Israel.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_LightClassCasesPendingToBePartOfConsolidatedProceedingPendingAgainstOtherManufacturersExcludingLorillard">
    <definition>Light class cases pending to be part of the consolidated proceeding pending against other manufacturers, excluding Lorillard.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ExciseAndSalesTaxes">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_BalanceSheetsTextBlock">
    <definition>Balance Sheets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CasesDismissedInLackOfEvidence">
    <definition>Lorillard Tobacco has been dismissed from cases in lack of evidence against them.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FasbAsu201009TextBlock">
    <definition>FASB ASU 2010-09.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ReducedJudgementForCourtsupervisedCessationProgram">
    <definition>Reduced judgement for a court-supervised cessation program.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Assets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LinesOfCreditCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_OtherAssetsTextBlock">
    <definition>Other Assets Text Block.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FilterCasesScheduledForTrial">
    <definition>Filter cases scheduled for trial.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_RatioOfEbitdaToInterestExpense">
    <definition>Ratio of EBITDA to interest expense.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FasbAscSection8251065TextBlock">
    <definition>FASB ASC Section 825-10-65.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_PunitiveDamagesAwardAgainstOtherManufacturersCaseTwo">
    <definition>Punitive damages award against other manufacturers- Case two.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_BenefitPlansTextBlock">
    <definition>Benefit Plans Text Block.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryFinishedGoods">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ReturnOfCapital">
    <definition>Return of capital.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_WestVirginiaIndividualPersonalInjuryCasesConsolidatedForTrial">
    <definition>West Virginia Individual Personal Injury Cases consolidated for trial.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_IncreaseDecreaseSettlementCostsLegal">
    <definition>The net change during the reporting period in the amount of settlement costs.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AcceptanceSharesOfCompanyCommonStock">
    <definition>Acceptance shares of Lowes common stock.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CourtGrantedPlaintiffsMotionForNewTrial">
    <definition>Court granted plaintiff's motion for a new trial.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CostOfComplianceToSubsidiaryCompany">
    <definition>The cost of compliance to Lorillard Tobacco.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LossContingencyPendingClaimsNumber">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CompanyShareIncludingInterestInTrialJudgement">
    <definition>Company Share Including Interest In Trial Judgement.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AmountOfBondForAppeal">
    <definition>Amount of the bond for the appeal.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_StruckAwardOfPrejudgmentInterestTotal">
    <definition>Struck an award of Prejudgment Interest total.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityPublicFloat">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromDerivatives">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_SubsidiaryCompanyShareInAppealBondAmount">
    <definition>Lorillard tobacco share in appeal bond amount.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_DaysToExecuteMsa">
    <definition>Days To Execute MSA.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ActualDamagesReinstatedByFloridaSupremeCourt">
    <definition>Actual damages reinstated by the Florida Supreme Court.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AmountReducedByLouisianaCourtInScottCase">
    <definition>Amount reduced by Louisiana Court in Scott Case.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AccruedLiabilitiesTextBlock">
    <definition>Accrued Liabilities Text Block.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfTreasuryStockByClassTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_SubsidiaryCompanyAsCoDefendant">
    <definition>Subsidiary Company As Co Defendant.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CasesReTrialsOrderedByAppellateCourts">
    <definition>Cases re-trials ordered by appellate courts.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Land">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_MaximumIncrementalIncreaseInInterestRateOnNotes">
    <definition>Maximum Incremental Increase in Interest rate on the Notes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_DamagesReducedByTrialCourt">
    <definition>Damages reduced by trial court.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FairValueTextBlock">
    <definition>Fair Value Text Block.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_VerdictsReturnedInFilterCases">
    <definition>Verdicts returned in Filter cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityFilerCategory">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_IntercompanyReceivables">
    <definition>Intercompany receivables.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ManufacturersViolatedFederalShermanAntitrustAct">
    <definition>Manufacturers violated the Federal Sherman Antitrust Act.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_NumberOfPlaintiffsInvolvedInSeveredIPICClaimsUsingOnlyOtherTobaccoProducts">
    <definition>Number of plaintiffs involved in Severed IPIC claims using only other tobacco products.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AscSubtopic71520TextBlock">
    <definition>Asc Subtopic 715-20.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ActualDamagesWerePaidInEngleProgenyCases">
    <definition>Actual damages were paid in Engle Progeny Cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NotesPayableFairValueDisclosure">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_PaymentMadeInSettlementToFilterCases">
    <definition>Payment made in settlement to Filter cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_DefendantPrevailedInFlightAttendantCases">
    <definition>Defendant prevailed in Flight Attendant Cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherLongTermInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FasbAscTopic855TextBlock">
    <definition>FASB ASC Topic 855.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SeniorLongTermNotes">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies2009">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FasbAsu201006TextBlock">
    <definition>FASB ASU 2010-06.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GrossProfit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TreasuryStockSharesAcquired">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_InvestmentInSubsidiaries">
    <definition>Investment in subsidiaries.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_SettlementCosts">
    <definition>Settlement costs</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseOtherNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_StatementsOfIncomeTextBlock">
    <definition>Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_IndirectPurchaserSuitsDismissedByCourts">
    <definition>Indirect purchaser suits dismissed by courts.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCondensedFinancialStatementsTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentType">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_MaximumSecurityDepositForEngleProgenyCases">
    <definition>Maximum security deposit for Engle Progeny cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FasbAscSection8151050TextBlock">
    <definition>Fasb Asc Section 815-10-50.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedIncomeTaxesPayable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_OrderToPayInPhaseTwoToFundCessationProgram">
    <definition>Order to pay In Phase two to fund Cessation program.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_NumberOfDaysCeasedToBeRatedInvestmentGradeForBecomingChangeOfControlTriggeringEvent">
    <definition>Number of days ceased to be rated investment grade for becoming change of control triggering event.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeVariableInterestRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AppealPending">
    <definition>Appeal Pending.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_NeitherCigaretteLabelingNorFTCRegulationBarsClaim">
    <definition>Neither cigarette labeling nor FTC regulation bars claim.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_LorillardsPortionOfActualAmountAwardedInEngleProgenyCase">
    <definition>Lorillard's portion of actual amount awarded in Engle Progeny case.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FasbAscSection8201035TextBlock">
    <definition>FASB ASC Section 820-10-35.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfOtherAssetsNoncurrentTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfLineOfCreditFacilitiesTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PrepaidPensionCosts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CigaretteManufacturersDefeatedMotionsForClassCertificationInCases">
    <definition>Cigarette manufacturers defeated motions for class certification in cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_IssuanceOfSharesForEachShareOfStockAsResultOfStockSplit">
    <definition>Issuance of shares for each share of stock as a result of stock split.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_PlantAndEquipmentTextBlock">
    <definition>Plant And Equipment Text Block.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDefinedBenefitPlansTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_SubsidiaryCompanyPaidToResolveClaimsInFilterCases">
    <definition>Lorillard Tobacco paid to resolve claims in Filter Cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgesNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CigaretteManufacturersCompaniesAndTradeAssociationsAsDefendants">
    <definition>Cigarette Manufacturers companies and Trade associations as defendants.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_TrialsForOtherCigaretteManufacturersInWhichJuryFoundedInFavorOfPlaintiffs">
    <definition>Trials for other cigarette manufacturers in which jury founded in favor of plaintiffs.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LossContingencyAccrualCarryingValueProvision">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_InventoriesTextBlock">
    <definition>Inventories Text Block.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_IndirectPurchaserSuitsForLorillardTobacco">
    <definition>Indirect purchaser suits for Lorillard Tobacco.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_RatioOfDebtToEbitda">
    <definition>Ratio Of Debt to Ebitda.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_SubsidiaryCompanyShareInAppealBondPercent">
    <definition>Subsidiary Company Share In Appeal Bond Percent.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_DistributionOfSharesInExchangeForAndInRedemptionOfCommonShares">
    <definition>Distribution of shares in exchange for and in redemption of common shares.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_PunitiveDamagesPaidToSmokers">
    <definition>Punitive Damages paid to Smokers.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_IndirectPurchaserSuits">
    <definition>Indirect purchaser suits.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_NumberOfPlaintiffsAssertingBothClaims">
    <definition>Number of plaintiffs asserting both claims.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_StatementsOfCashFlowsTextBlock">
    <definition>Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_NumberOfStatesHavingTobaccoGrowingCommunitiesToBeCompensatedByTrust">
    <definition>Number of states having tobacco growing communities to be compensated by "Trust".</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CasesScheduledForTrial">
    <definition>Cases scheduled for trial.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_SalesPromotion">
    <definition>Sales Promotion.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfInterestRateFairValueHedgeDerivatives">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FairValueHedgeGainLossReclassifiedToInterestExpenseNet">
    <definition>Fair Value Hedge Gain Loss Reclassified To Interest Expense Net.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_TrialsUnderwayForOtherCigaretteManufacturers">
    <definition>Trials underway for other cigarette manufacturers.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ClassActionCasesDefeatedInFederalCourt">
    <definition>Class action cases defeated in federal court.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_MaximumPunitiveDamagesAwardInOneOfTwelveCasesAgainstOtherCigaretteManufacturers">
    <definition>Maximum punitive damages award in one of the twelve cases against other cigarette manufacturers.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitContributions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_AmendmentFlag">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Liabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CasesAreConcluded">
    <definition>Cases are concluded.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_MedicalMonitoringClassActionCases">
    <definition>Medical Monitoring Class Action cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_PunitiveDamagesAwardAgainstOtherManufacturersCaseOne">
    <definition>Punitive damages award against other manufacturers- Case one.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_SubsidiaryCompanyAsDefendant">
    <definition>Subsidiary Company As Defendant.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_TrialCourtOrderToPayToFundCourtSupervisedCessationProgram">
    <definition>Trial Court order to pay to fund a court-supervised cessation program.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AdditionalCasesToBePartOfProceeding">
    <definition>Additional cases to be part of proceeding.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_NumberOfCasesPendingTextBlock">
    <definition>Number of Cases Pending.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_EarningPerShareTextBlock">
    <definition>Earnings per share.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsAtCarryingValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestPaid">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TreasuryStockAcquiredAverageCostPerShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_NumberOfPlaintiffsInvolvedInSeveredIpicClaims">
    <definition>Number of plaintiffs involved in Severed IPIC claims.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherEmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_LitigationAccrual">
    <definition>Litigation accrual.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SalesAndExciseTaxPayableCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_DamagesPaidToPlaintiffsInIndividualCasesByManufacturers">
    <definition>Damages Paid To Plaintiffs InIndividual Cases By Manufacturers.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_PunitiveDamagesAwardedInEngleProgenyCaseDuring2006">
    <definition>Punitive damages awarded in Engle Progeny Case during 2006.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CasesDismissedInEntiretyInWestVirginiaIndividualPersonalInjuryCases">
    <definition>Cases dismissed in the entirety in West Virginia Individual Personal Injury Cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ParentCompanyAsCoDefendant">
    <definition>Parent Company As Co Defendant.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_MinimumIncrementalIncreaseInInterestRateOnNotes">
    <definition>Minimum Incremental Increase in Interest rate on the Notes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AuthorizedAmountForShareRepurchaseProgram">
    <definition>Authorized Amount For Share Repurchase Program</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BuildingsAndImprovementsGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryRawMaterials">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_JuryAwardsLimitedToActualDamages">
    <definition>Jury awards limited to actual damages.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryLIFOReserve">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_SeveredWestVirginiaIndividualPersonalInjuryCasesNotScheduledForTrial">
    <definition>Severed West Virginia individual personal injury cases- not scheduled for trial.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_MaximumAppealBondPercentage">
    <definition>Maximum appeal bond percentage.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationFinancingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FasbAsu200905TextBlock">
    <definition>FASB ASU 200-905.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_TrustFundPayableToCompensateTobaccoGrowingCommunities">
    <definition>Trust fund payable to compensate tobacco growing communities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_NumberOfStateInvolvedInTobaccoRelatedAntitrustSuit">
    <definition>Number of states involved in Tobacco-Related Antitrust Indirect Purchasers Suits.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_MultiPlaintiffsAreAssertedInEngleProgenyCases">
    <definition>Multi Plaintiffs Are Asserted In Engle Progeny Cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityExpirationDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAsset">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_NumberOfMissouriHospitalsOrHospitalDistricts">
    <definition>Number of Missouri hospitals or hospital districts.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TreasuryStockShares">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ShareRepurchaseProgramTextBlock">
    <definition>Share Repurchase Program.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_TrialsJuriesFoundInFavorOfDefendantsInEngleProgenyCases">
    <definition>Trials Juries Found In Favor Of Defendants In Engle Progeny Cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanEstimatedFutureEmployerContributionsInNextFiscalYear">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ContestedVerdictsWithoutFinalResolution">
    <definition>Contested verdicts without final resolution.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_PunitiveDamagesAwardInTwelveCasesAgainstOtherCigaretteManufacturers">
    <definition>Punitive damages award in twelve cases against other cigarette manufacturers.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AdditionalAmountPaidForPlaintiffsAttorneysFees">
    <definition>Additional amount paid for Plaintiffs attorneys fees.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AuthorizationDate">
    <definition>Authorization Date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSold">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedges">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementDefinedBenefitPlansLiabilitiesNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfUnsecuredDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ParentCompanyAsDefendantInFilterCases">
    <definition>Lorillard Inc. as defendant in Filter Cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ActualAndPunitiveDamagesWerePaidInEngleProgenyCases">
    <definition>Actual and punitive damages were paid in Engle Progeny Cases.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_LongTermDebtsTextBlock">
    <definition>Long Term Debts Text Block.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_NumberOfStatesInvolvedInMasterSettlementAgreement">
    <definition>Number of states involved in Master Settlement Agreement.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityRegistrantName">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ReturnOnInvestmentInSubsidiaries">
    <definition>Return on investment in subsidiaries.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FasbAscTopic808TextBlock">
    <definition>Fasb Asc Topic 808.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_LightsCasesPendingAgainstOtherManufacturersExcludingLorillard">
    <definition>Lights cases pending against other manufacturers, excluding Lorillard.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ActualDamagesAwardedAtFloridaSupremeCourt">
    <definition>Actual damages awarded at Florida Supreme Court.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ShareRepurchaseProgramCompleted">
    <definition>Share repurchase program completed.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ChallengeToConstitutionalityOfAmendedStatue">
    <definition>Challenge to the constitutionality of amended statue.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_NumberOfStateAndTerritorialAttorneysGeneralInvolvedInMsaRelatedAntitrustSuit">
    <definition>Number Of State And Territorial Attorneys General Involved In MSA-Related Antitrust Suit.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AnnualPaymentByDomesticTobaccoIndustry">
    <definition>Annual payment by domestic tobacco industry.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_PretaxChargesForObligationsUnderStateSettlementAgreements">
    <definition>Pretax charges for obligations under State settlement Agreements.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MachineryAndEquipmentGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccruedProfessionalFeesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_DamagesAwarded">
    <definition>Damages awarded.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CasesPendingAgainstCigaretteManufacturers">
    <definition>Cases pending against cigarette manufacturers.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_CompensationToTobaccoQuotaHoldersAndTobaccoGrowers">
    <definition>Compensation to tobacco quota holders and tobacco growers.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_FasbAscTopic820TextBlock">
    <definition>Fasb Asc Topic 820.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ActualAmountAwardedInEngleProgenyCase">
    <definition>Actual Amount Awarded In Engle Progeny Case.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_SharesOutstandingBeforeStockSplit">
    <definition>Shares outstanding before stock split.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_MaterialAndSupplies">
    <definition>Material and supplies.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnamortizedDebtIssuanceExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_MinimumPunitiveDamagesAwardInOneOfTwelveCasesAgainstOtherCigaretteManufacturers">
    <definition>Minimum punitive damages award in one of the twelve cases against other cigarette manufacturers.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_AdditionalCasesToBeFiled">
    <definition>Additional cases to be filed.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="lo_ClassActionCasesDefeatedInStateCourt">
    <definition>Class action cases defeated in state court.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
</DefinitionAndReference>
