noun
doldrums
DOHL-drumz/ˈdəʊldrəmz/
A condition of stagnation with little movement or energy.
The man's model-building hobby remains in the doldrums, its unfinished boat gathering dust.
Etymology
Probably based on dull in the sense “make slow-witted,” doldrums first meant low spirits. Its later use for sailing ships unable to make headway supplies a vivid image of inactivity and stagnation.
In context
Japan′s stagnant economy is expected to remain in the doldrums for another few years... with exports not rebounding enough to bolster its economy and domestic spending continuing to shrink.
More examples
- A walk outside helps pull me out of the doldrums.
- Sales slip into the doldrums after the holiday rush.
- The project stays in the doldrums while we await funding.
Forms
doldrums
Similar words
- stagnation
- Emphasizes lack of movement or development rather than low spirits.
- slump
- Suggests a decline from an earlier level of activity.
- listlessness
- Focuses on a person's lack of energy or interest.