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

It's often used to combat jet lag, adjust to shift work, and ease occasional insomnia.1 Unlike traditional sleep aids, melatonin is a natural hormone your body makes to regulate your sleep cycle. —Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 22 Feb. 2025

Parker Posey is an amazing actress, but her comic energy so far is dialed down (jet lag?). —Meredith Blake, Los Angeles Times, 17 Feb. 2025

As in prior outings of The White Lotus, at least one guest stands a strong chance of going home in a casket (which at least means no jet lag). —Tom Gliatto, People.com, 15 Feb. 2025

Benito Skinner—the comedian and actor also known as Benny Drama—won’t let a little jet lag keep him down on the day of the Dior Men fall 2025 show. —Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 25 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for jet lag

• airbag
• handbag
• ragtag
• sandbag
• ag
• bag
• brag
• dag
• drag
• flag
• gag
• hag

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