What does layover mean?
A layover is a temporary interruption in a journey during which a traveller waits before continuing, most often between two flights. It may also refer to the length of that wait: a two-hour layover gives passengers two hours in the airport. The word is especially familiar in North American English, while British English more often uses “stopover.” Although layovers are commonly associated with air travel, the term can also describe a stop on a rail or bus journey. A layover differs from a connection because the passenger is not required to leave the station or airport when the next service departs; the distinction is clearest when comparing a through journey with one involving an intermediate stop. In a practical sense, a layover is both a logistical delay and an opportunity to rest, eat, or explore the surrounding area before continuing the trip.
nounA stop during a journey, especially between flights, or the time spent at such a stop.
- A stop during a journey, especially between connecting flights.
- The time spent waiting during such a stop.
"We had a three-hour layover in Toronto before the connecting flight."
"The schedule gives us a six-hour layover at the international terminal."
"Her layover was long enough to explore the city centre."
The plural is used when referring to multiple journey stops or waiting periods.
"Long layovers can make international itineraries tiring."
What’s the difference between a layover and a layoff? One delays your flight; the other can delay your career.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does layover come from?
“Layover” is a compound of “lay” and “over,” developed in American English in connection with stopping temporarily during a journey. Its familiar travel sense comes from the verb phrase “lay over,” which uses “lay” in the sense of putting or placing and “over” to indicate an intervening period. Modern usage developed from earlier temporary-stop senses associated with travel and railway travel.
Related word forms
How layover is actually used
The term is especially common in North American travel contexts. British speakers also use it, although “stopover” is more frequent in British English.
Easily confused with layover
A layover is a temporary stop during a journey, whereas a layoff is the temporary or permanent dismissal of an employee.