economy-class syndrome

noun

1. (not in technical usage) the development of a deep-vein thrombosis in the legs or pelvis of a person travelling for a long period of time in cramped conditions

Word History and Origins

Origin of economy-class syndrome¹

C20: reference to the restricted legroom of cheaper seats on passenger aircraft

Example Sentences

Immobile for days on end, they risk deep-vein thromboses, a condition sometimes known as “economy-class syndrome” because it can affect passengers on long-haul flights.

From Washington Post

Kumamoto officials issued a warning about the dangers of so-called economy-class syndrome, or deep-vein thrombosis, which is the formation of blood clots in the legs due to prolonged inactivity.

From Wall Street Journal

Emergency evacuation plans aren’t adequately tested on aircraft with shrunken seat configurations, and travelers face other health risks, such as deep vein thrombosis, also called “economy-class syndrome,” he says.

From Washington Post

Linked to sedentary behavior, the condition — referred to as economy-class syndrome — can be fatal if the clot reaches the lungs, causing a blockage known as a pulmonary embolism.

From New York Times

But economy-class syndrome may be a misnomer.

From New York Times