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 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 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'jet lag.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

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

Dictionary Entries Near jet lag

Cite this Entry

“Jet lag.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jet%20lag. Accessed 4 Dec. 2023.

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!