Doldrums

Doldrums is a noun that refers to a slump or a state of stagnation. The exact etymology of our word of the day is unknown, but we know it was first used as a nautical term to describe periods of time without strong winds — which was a problem for sailing vessels. Today, the word is used in a similar way to describe periods of stagnation or the absence of inspiration. Without any inspiration, Stacy has been in the doldrums for a while. That’s why she hasn’t painted a masterpiece in a while.