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

Williams snapped photos and shared videos on social media of sub-par coffee poured in paper cups, the flasks bordering on empty despite potential jet lag. —Asli Pelit, New York Times, 19 May 2025

That meant late nights, early wake-ups, work events, and heels that wreck your feet, plus years of jet lag from endless travel. —Jessica Sibley, Time, 19 May 2025

Once under the lights though, not a trace of jet lag of course. —Steve Baltin, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025

Plan Ahead With Good Hydration Hydration is important for staying comfortable enough to sleep and minimizing jet lag's impact. —Laura Schober, Health, 23 Apr. 2025

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