doldrums

[dohl-druhmz, dol-, dawl-] / ˈdoʊl drəmz, ˈdɒl-, ˈdɔl- /

NOUN

depression

Synonyms

STRONGEST

gloom malaise slump stagnation stupor

STRONG

apathy blahs blues boredom bummer dejection disinterest downer dullness dumps ennui funk inactivity indifference inertia lassitude letdown listlessness mopes tedium torpor yawn

WEAK

black mood blue funk dismals

Antonyms

STRONG

concern excitement feeling happiness interest liveliness sympathy

WEAK

elation gladness glee joy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In the doldrums of COVID, Gil would come around to check in on the renovation.

From Slate • Mar. 25, 2026

But overall the fallout from the war is another blow for Europe's traditional industrial powerhouse as it is struggling to rebound after a long period in the doldrums.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

A lower GDP target for 2026 reflects a level of tolerance for weaker growth as China’s economy contends with muted household spending, dampened investment and a real-estate market in the doldrums.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 5, 2026

Linda had not merely been there to stave off the post-Beatles doldrums.

From Salon • Feb. 27, 2026

The whole office felt emptied out, ready for the doldrums of summer.

From "The School for Whatnots" by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Vocabulary lists containing doldrums

Physical Geography - Middle School

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Physical Geography - High School

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