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

The royal set off around 7 a.m. local time, awake for the early workout likely thanks in part to the jet lag as the U.K. is five hours ahead. —Simon Perry, Peoplemag, 19 Sep. 2023

So, good to be back and shake off the jet lag, get things started. —Jim McBride, BostonGlobe.com, 18 Sep. 2023

Andreas Prime Steaks & Seafood is a high-end European steakhouse (minus the jet lag). —Sarah Blaskovich, Dallas News, 1 Sep. 2023

But three weeks into their stay — Spain arrived in New Zealand well in advance of its first game, hoping to draw the sting from the jet lag — the place had started to pall. —Rory Smith, New York Times, 3 Aug. 2023

And, like real jet lag, there are real implications for your health. —Danielle Sinay, Glamour, 14 Nov. 2023

The majority of times, slumping has something to do with your mind-set, your family issues, your sleep, jet lag. —Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 13 Nov. 2023

Essa Sulaiman Ahmad knows a thing or two about jet lag. —Alison Fox, Travel + Leisure, 28 Oct. 2023

The in-flight portion also includes meditation apps, modifying cabin lighting to minimize jet lag, and including items like Guerlain’s Orchidée Imperial collection for skin health as well as aromatherapy and special teas. —Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 24 Oct. 2023

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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