jump seat

noun

1. a movable or folding seat, as in a carriage, taxicab, or limousine, used as an extra seat.

jump seat

noun

1. a folding seat for temporary use, as on the flight deck of some aircraft for an additional crew member
2. a folding seat in a motor vehicle such as in a London taxi

Word History and Origins

Origin of jump seat¹

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65

Example Sentences

The Alaska Airlines pilot, who was riding in a jump seat on the flight deck, currently faces state and federal charges related to the incident.

From Seattle Times

Mr. Emerson was off duty during the flight, and was riding in the cockpit jump seat.

From New York Times

The pilot’s indictment came a few days before an off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot riding in the cockpit jump seat tried to shut down the engines of a Horizon Air jet in mid-flight, according to authorities.

From Seattle Times

Sitting in the cockpit jump seat, Emerson told the pilots, “I’m not OK.”

From Seattle Times

The indictment was issued just a few days before an off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot riding in the cockpit jump seat tried to shut down the engines of a Horizon Air jet in midflight.

From Washington Times