- The phrase originally came from “airplane mode” of electronic devices. In this mode, cell phones, tablet PCs or etc is disconnected from Wi-fi or 3G services, so one cannot connect to the internet anymore. Metaphorically, this expression is used for a person who disconnects from the social network.
airplane mode
other word formation type metaphor/ noun
The state or behavior of a person in which one cuts off all SNS connection or interaction with other people
Etymology : metaphorically derived from the airplane mode of electronic devices
Source : 9/3/11 Talking with my classmate
Last modified: 5 December 2011