jet lag

noun

: a condition that is characterized by various psychological and physiological effects (such as fatigue and irritability), occurs following long flight through several time zones, and probably results from disruption of circadian rhythms in the human body

Temporary fatigue, drowsiness, and loss of concentration are typical symptoms of isolated bouts of jet lag …

—J. Netting

jet-lagged

ˈjet-ˌlagd 

adjective

Examples of jet lag in a Sentence

I had bad jet lag after that last trip overseas.

Recent Examples on the Web

If a long flight is on your travel itinerary, scoop up this double-support neck pillow (discounted down to $60) and say goodbye to neck pain and jet lag. —Brittany Vanderbill, Travel + Leisure, 14 Dec. 2024

Between the jet lag and the terrible English food, everyone is stopped up. —Brian Moylan, Vulture, 24 Oct. 2024

Bad ergonomics wreck productivity faster than jet lag. —Jodie Cook, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024

Once the mealtime excitement is over, the jet lag can creep in. —Nick Stockton, WIRED, 28 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

jet lag

noun

: a condition that is marked by physical and mental symptoms (as tiredness and bad temper) and occurs following a long flight through several time zones

Medical Definition

jet lag

noun

ˈjet-ˌlag 

: a condition that is characterized by various psychological and physiological effects (as fatigue and irritability), occurs following long flight through several time zones, and probably results from disruption of circadian rhythms in the human body

called also jet fatigue

jet-lagged adjective