• Source:JND

What Is Doldrums? The world is full of different, unique vocabulary, which intrigues English enthusiasts and general speakers across the globe. There are many words which sound very classy but are rarely used because of their complex usage. One such word is Doldrums. The term “doldrums” has both a scientific and an everyday meaning. The one meaning refers to the physical place, a location on Earth. While another meaning is associated with a state of mind. There high chance that you might have heard the word during a weather forecast or in conversations. Here, you will be covered with a better understanding of the word ‘Doldrums,’ along with its origins and usage.

What Is The Scientific Definition Of Word Doldrums?

The doldrums refer to a low-pressure belt surrounding the Earth close to the equator, that is, between roughly 5° north and 5° south latitudes. Also known as the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), this zone is distinguished by three factors, which are:

- Whimsical or virtually non-existent winds.

- Heavy thunderstorms and much precipitation.

- Warm temperatures and very humid conditions.

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Brief About The Scientific Term Doldrums

Location  Near equator (5°N to 5°S)
Weather unpredictably calm winds
Importance  Affects global wind currents

Historically, sailing vessels crossing the Atlantic or Pacific could be abandoned for days or weeks in the absence of wind, bringing travel to a standstill. Additionally, it is important to know that meteorologists call this region critical to global wind and weather patterns since it is where northeast and southeast trade winds meet.

What Is The Meaning Of Doldrums In Everyday Language?

In figurative terms, the doldrums describe a phase of stagnation, inactivity, or depression. For example, when you are feeling lethargic or "in the doldrums" at work or even when you are suffering a creative block or lack of forward motion in personal undertakings.

Again, the term is commonly used to describe periods when energy and activity are low, in the same way that stillness is felt by old sailing ships when they are at the literal doldrums.

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How To Use A Word Doldrums In A Sentence?

1. "After a long and successful career, the artist found herself in the doldrums for a period, struggling to find new inspiration."

2. "The housing market has been in the doldrums for months, with property sales showing little improvement."

3. "Experts predict that the economy will remain in the doldrums for the foreseeable future unless drastic measures are taken."

4. "When his creativity hit the doldrums, the writer decided it was okay to take a break and recharge."

Additional Sentence Example Of Word -Doldrums

1. "Lately, the person has been in the doldrums, feeling a bit sad and unmotivated."

2. "The long, dark days of winter often put a person in the doldrums."

3. "Business has been in the doldrums this month, with fewer sales than usual."

4. "The team was stuck in the doldrums, unable to score a single point."

5. "The local real estate market has been in the doldrums for several years."

6. "Bye-bye to the doldrums!" the captain declared as the ship finally caught a steady breeze, leaving the calm equatorial waters behind.

Note: It is important to keep in mind that often, "doldrums" is used after "in the," which makes it sound like "in the doldrums"

Doldrums are used both as a metaphor and a scientific term, referring to both an atmospheric condition and a state of mind. Observing the doldrums helps sailors, meteorologists, and ordinary people to learn about the periods of stagnation—either in life or in nature. Therefore, Doldrums is a windless equatorial region, and a metaphor for emotional inactivity.