See Also: doldrum(dictionary)

doldrum (iou)



doldrum noun. L18.
[Perh. from DULL adjective after tantrum.]
I. sing.
A dull, sluggish, or stupid person. L18-E19.
II. In pl. (usu. with the).
A condition of dullness or drowsiness; low spirits, despondency. E19.
The condition of a ship which makes no headway. E19.
A region of calms, sudden storms, and light unpredictable winds near the Equator. M19.
fig. A state or period of little activity or progress in affairs. L19.
J. Barzun Fiction languishes and the theater is in the doldrums.