summoning sickness

English edit

Noun edit

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