jump seat

American  

noun

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

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jump seat British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of jump seat

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65

Example Sentences

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

From New York Times • Dec. 5, 2023

In this case, the jump seat was the only one free on the plane.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 23, 2023

When the jump seat, a third seat in the cockpit, is occupied it’s often filled by an off-duty pilot, but the seat can be used by other airline employees or federal safety inspectors.

From Washington Times • Oct. 23, 2023

After she refused to sit in her soiled seat, the woman said, she was given a jump seat — a small seat meant for short-term use by crew — for the remainder of the flight.

From Washington Post • Jan. 8, 2023

“Only one jump seat per room in this sector.”

From "The Last Cuentista" by Donna Barba Higuera