doldrum

noun

dol·​drum

ˈdōldrəm,

ˈdäl- sometimes ˈdȯl-

plural -s

1

doldrums plural

a

: a spell of listlessness or despondency : blues

b

: a state of bafflement : quandary

2

archaic : a sluggish or slow-witted person

3

doldrums plural

a

: a region over the ocean near the equator abounding in calms, squalls, and light baffling winds

b

: the calms met with in that region

4

doldrums plural : a condition of inactivity, retardation, or stagnation:

a

: a downswing, slump, or slack period (as in business or industry)

through the economic doldrums of the late forties

—Drew Middleton

bring the antiques business out of the depression doldrums

—Alice Winchester

: a period of sagging or falling off (as in sales or financial or political activity)

b

: a deterioration to a low ebb of vigor, creative power, or effectiveness

that American fiction is at present in the doldrums is borne out anew

—Amy Loveman

Word History

Etymology

probably akin to Old English dol foolish, silly

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now