In the doldrums

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Meaning

In low spirits, inactivity, or a period of stagnation. The Doldrums can also name the equatorial belt of light and variable winds and calms.

Origin

Doldrums first appears around 1803 for low spirits or dullness, probably formed from dull with a playful ending like the one in tantrums. Sailors then used in the doldrums for a becalmed condition by 1824, and by 1848 the name had shifted to the equatorial zone associated with calms, squalls, and unreliable winds. The emotional expression therefore came before the geographical name, contrary to the common claim that the mood was directly named after a pre-existing region on nautical charts.

Research Sources

  1. doldrums Online Etymology Dictionary
  2. Word of the Day: Doldrums Merriam-Webster

Variants

  • Have the doldrums
  • The Doldrums

Usage Examples

  • The theatre was in the doldrums until a successful summer season brought audiences back.
  • I have been in the doldrums since the project was cancelled.
  • The sailing ship lost days in the Doldrums while the wind repeatedly failed.

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