in the doldrums

Idioms and Phrases

Depressed; dull and listless. For example, Dean's in the doldrums for most of every winter . This expression alludes to the maritime doldrums, a belt of calms and light winds north of the equator in which sailing ships were often becalmed. [Early 1800s] Also see down in the dumps .

Example Sentences

Let’s remember that in the ’80s, baseball was in the doldrums.

From Los Angeles Times

After years in the doldrums, are Everton now on course to fly high again and be propelled to new horizons?

From BBC

But for the Liberal Democrats this is a nice problem to have, after years in the doldrums.

From BBC

People are not exactly queuing to join an industry and devote their lives to it, when it has been in the doldrums for so long.

From BBC

Biden was eager to dispel suggestions his campaign was stuck in the doldrums, while Trump was itching to debate early and often a rival he considers in steep mental and physical decline.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• crestfallen
• depressed
• despondent
• disheartened
• glum