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

See Examples For:

jump seat

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

From New York Times ● Dec. 5, 2023

Reaching the handles on the fire suppression system would be relatively easy for someone in a jump seat, given that it’s within “arm’s reach,” Miller said.

From Slate ● Oct. 24, 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

Ralph lowered his legs; the jump seat popped right back vertical as though it had already forgotten him.

From "Typical American" by Gish Jen