Dictionary

doldrums

noun plural dol·drums \ˈdōl-drəmz, ˈdäl-, ˈdȯl-\

: a state or period of sadness or depression

: a state or period in which there is no activity or improvement

Full Definition of DOLDRUMS

: a spell of listlessness or despondency

often capitalized : a part of the ocean near the equator abounding in calms, squalls, and light shifting winds

: a state or period of inactivity, stagnation, or slump

probably akin to Old English dol foolish

First Known Use: 1811

DOLDRUMS Defined for Kids

noun plural dol·drums \ˈdōl-drəmz, ˈdäl-, ˈdȯl-\

: a spell of sadness <I tried to cheer her of her doldrums.>

: a period of no activity or improvement <Her business was in the doldrums.>

: a part of the ocean near the equator known for its calms

Next Word in the Dictionary: dole (noun)Previous Word in the Dictionary: doldrumAll Words Near: doldrums

What made you want to look up doldrums? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears