A state of listlessness or depression; a period of stagnation or inactivity. Originally referred to a region near the equator where sailing ships were often becalmed.
From 'doldrum' (19th century), possibly from 'dull' + '-drum' (as in tantrum). The nautical meaning came from the equatorial region where ships would sit motionless due to lack of wind, leading to the figurative sense of being 'stuck.'
Think of a drum that's gone dull and lifeless - no rhythm, no energy. When sailors were stuck in the doldrums, their ship was as motionless as a broken drum, and their spirits sank to match.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.