How Do You Spell DOLDRUMS?

Pronunciation: [dˈə͡ʊldɹəmz] (IPA)

Doldrums, spelled /ˈdɒldrəmz/, is a word that describes a state of inactivity, stagnation or depression. The word comes from the Old English word "dol", which means "dull" or "idle". The spelling of the word includes a silent "l" which is not pronounced, and the "ums" ending indicates that it is a plural noun. The word is commonly used to describe a period of boredom or feeling low or depressed. It can also be used to describe the equatorial regions of the ocean where winds are light and sailing ships can get stranded.

DOLDRUMS Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "doldrums" refers to a state or period of inactivity, stagnation, or low spirits. It commonly describes a state of feeling downcast, unenergetic, or lacking motivation. The word can also be used to illustrate a situation or condition characterized by a lack of progress, growth, or excitement.

    Originally associated with maritime vocabulary, the doldrums referred to an equatorial region of the Atlantic Ocean where there were frequently light winds and calm waters. Sailors would sometimes find themselves stranded in this area for days or even weeks, as weather conditions made it difficult to navigate. Over time, this term has been adopted metaphorically to depict a similar sense of being trapped or stuck in a non-productive or dull phase of life.

    The doldrums can manifest in various aspects of life, such as career, relationships, or personal goals. It encompasses a feeling of being uninspired, demotivated, or experiencing a lack of direction. In these circumstances, individuals may find it challenging to muster enthusiasm, seize new opportunities, or achieve progress towards their objectives. It can often be characterized by a sense of monotony, boredom, or a lack of fulfillment.

    In summary, "doldrums" describes a state of low spirits, stagnation, and lack of progress or enthusiasm. It is often used to convey a feeling of being stuck or inactive in various aspects of life, evoking a sense of inactivity and unfulfillment.

  2. A sailor's term for the tropical zones of calms and variable winds.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for DOLDRUMS *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for DOLDRUMS

Etymology of DOLDRUMS

The word "doldrums" has an interesting etymology. It originally comes from the Old English word "dol", which means "dull" or "foolish". The "doldrums" referred to a feeling of being dull or sluggish. This term later evolved to describe a region of the Atlantic Ocean near the equator known for its calm winds and unpredictable weather, where sailing ships often got stuck for days or weeks, causing crews to feel bored and inactive. Hence, "doldrums" gradually adopted the meaning of a state of inactivity, low spirits, or stagnation.

Idioms with the word DOLDRUMS

  • in the doldrums The idiom "in the doldrums" can be defined as being in a state of stagnation, low spirits, or lack of progress. It refers to feeling stuck, demotivated, or experiencing a period of inactivity or little productivity.
  • be in the doldrums The idiom "be in the doldrums" refers to being in a state of low spirits or lacking energy and enthusiasm. It suggests a feeling of being stagnant or stuck, often accompanied by a sense of boredom or sadness.
  • down in the doldrums The idiom "down in the doldrums" means feeling sad, depressed, or experiencing a period of low spirits. It implies a state of lethargy, despondency, or a lack of motivation. It can be used to describe someone who is feeling down or in a slump, usually due to boredom, disappointment, or a prolonged period of inactivity.
  • out of the doldrums The idiom "out of the doldrums" means to emerge or escape from a period of boredom, inactivity, or lack of enthusiasm. It denotes a renewed sense of energy, motivation, or excitement after a stagnant or uneventful period.
  • doldrums The idiom "doldrums" refers to a state of inactivity, stagnation, or depression. It can also refer to a dull, listless, or sluggish period or situation.

Similar spelling word for DOLDRUMS

Plural form of DOLDRUMS is DOLDRUMS

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