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 lagJ. Netting
jet-lagged adjective

Examples of jet lag in a Sentence

I had bad jet lag after that last trip overseas.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For starters, drivers and their teams must manage jet lag and travel fatigue. Eileen Falkenberg-Hull, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025 Ready for a French vacation without jet lag? Essence, 3 Oct. 2025 The decision not only mitigated against jet lag but allowed players to spend the first week on the course, perfecting their pairing strategies, rather than cramming too much time into the days immediately before play started, where media commitments are at their height. Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025 However, the impact of jet lag on leaders' well-being and performance can be mitigated. Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for jet lag

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of jet lag was in 1965

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Jet lag.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jet%20lag. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

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
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on jet lag

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!