Doldrums

/ˈdoʊl.drəmz/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A state or period of inactivity or listlessness.

After the excitement of the holidays, she fell into the doldrums during January.

A state of mental or emotional stagnation.

He was stuck in the doldrums, unable to find motivation for his work.

A region of the ocean near the equator characterized by calms, light winds, or squalls.

Sailing through the doldrums can be frustrating due to the lack of wind.

The term comes from the nautical term describing a light-wind area near the equator.

in the doldrums:

In a state of stagnation or depression.

doldrums of inactivity:

A phase marked by lack of movement or progress.

Feeling down or unmotivated.

I've been in the doldrums since the holidays ended.

A bored or uninspired state.

After finishing my project, I hit the doldrums.