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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The intriguing spa menu goes far beyond standard massages, with fascial release therapy, scalp exfoliation, abdominal massage, infrared heated body masks, and a magnesium-laden meridien massage to combat jet lag. Amber Gibson, Travel + Leisure, 30 Apr. 2025 Sleep Disruption Sleep disruptions such as staying up all night to study or socialize, jet lag, chronic pain, a major illness that prevents you from sleeping, or shift work (working overnight or at other times outside the typical daytime work hours) can cause irregular sleep cycles. Sanja Jelic, Verywell Health, 28 Apr. 2025 Consider a stopover to break up the journey and minimize jet lag. Christopher Elliott, USA Today, 11 Apr. 2025 This is also ideal for relieving jet lag, making this an excellent option for airplane travel. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 4 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for jet lag

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Jet lag.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jet%20lag. Accessed 5 May. 2025.

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
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