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 …

—Jessa 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

Using Lockley’s over 30 years of research, Timeshifter launched its jet lag mitigation app in 2018. — Cnt Editors, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Sep. 2026

Does this win reflect more on how good the 49ers were or just how bad the Rams were due to being unprepared from no preseason play and sluggish from jet lag? — Matt Barrows, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026

Consider preparing for jet lag If your upcoming trip lands you in a different time zone, Brown advises using the week leading up to your departure to gradually shift your routine accordingly. — Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 11 Sep. 2026

In the case of the 49ers and Rams, each sought to battle the jet lag from their 17-hour flight to Australia in wildly different ways. — Elizabeth Robinson, NBC news, 10 Sep. 2026

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