ˈdōldrəm, ˈdäl- sometimes ˈdȯl- noun
( -s )
Etymology: probably akin to Old English dol foolish, silly — more at dull
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