summoning sickness

English

Noun

summoning sickness (uncountable)

1. (collectible card games, originally and chiefly Magic: The Gathering) The inability of a creature to attack or use certain abilities during the turn when it comes into play.

   Synonym: (rare) jet lag

   • 1995, Charles Wolfe, Deep Magic: Advanced Strategies for Experienced Players of Magic: The Gathering, page 44:

     Many times creatures with summoning sickness will not get an opportunity to be used before they are destroyed.

   • 1997, George H. Baxter, Baxter on Magic: A Guide to Proper Playing Techniques for Magic: The Gathering, page 22:

     The Factory may not be tapped to increase its own toughness if it suffers from summoning sickness.

   • 2004, Mike Searle, Duel Masters: Sempai Legends: Prima Official Game Guide:

     Perhaps the niftiest card in Duel Masters: Sempai Legends, Diamond Cutter enables all blockers to attack and cancels the effects of summoning sickness