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

Daily schedules that involve shift work or having jet lag can interfere with these schedules. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 25 Oct. 2024

Melatonin effectively prevents or decreases jet lag from flights crossing five or more time zones. —Willow Jarosh, Ms, Rd, Health, 18 Oct. 2024

Prefer to shake off jet lag in the comfort of your suite? —Lane Nieset, Travel + Leisure, 18 Sep. 2024

These days, social media is full of travel hacks that promise to make air travel easier, whether those are tips for packing into a carry-on, toys to keep toddlers busy on a long-haul flight, or pillows to beat jet lag. —Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 10 Oct. 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