This week’s word is “doldrums.” Even though its meaning is probably familiar, I loved learning about its nautical connection.
Doldrums
- a period of inactivity or stagnation
- a state of feeling listless or despondent
- When capitalized, Doldrums refers to a part of the ocean near the equator, known by sailors to have light or shifting winds in which they struggled to make any headway.
According to The Phrase Finder, the derivation of the word is not definitive, but even before sailors used it to describe areas with becalming wind conditions, it was used in the 19th century to mean a dull fellow. In this context, it was thought to be derived from “dol” (meaning dull) and a form taken from “tantrum” (meaning a fit of petulance). So a doldrum was a fit of sloth and dullness.
Synonyms
- Slump
- Lassitude
- Languor
Examples of “doldrums” usage
The hot, muggy weather put me in the doldrums, and I moped around like a sick puppy all day. What I needed was a deep dive into a cool, clear lake.
The sudden downturn in the U.S. economy in 2008 put the banking industry in the doldrums, and it took years before their industry stocks were star performers again.
How would you use “doldrums” in a sentence?
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Love word studies. I think we are kindred spirits in this activity. I seldom feel the doldrums. Prolonged days of inactivity can bring them on, but when I am hit with doldrums, I take a walk or call a friend for lunch. A change of scenery lifts my spirits and helps me shift my focus so I can be productive again.
Thanks for reading and commenting, Sally — great use of the word and walking is one of my favorite ways to get out of the doldrums too. Even in this frigid weather, I woke up feeling sluggish a few days ago and bundled up to go out and fill my bird feeders. The brisk air woke me up in a hurry and my doldrums were gone by the time I came back in the house!
I liked reading this. Good info. Thanks.
Thanks so much, Lois — always good to see you pop in here. I’m surprised how many people love words and where they came from, even if they know what the meaning is. Stay warm!