- REDIRECT
The
doldrums is a
colloquial expression derived from historical
maritime usage, which refers to those parts of the
Atlantic Ocean and the
Pacific Ocean affected by the
Intertropical Convergence Zone, a low-pressure area around the
equator where the
prevailing winds are calm. The doldrums are also noted for calm periods when the winds disappear altogether, trapping sail-powered boats for periods of days or weeks. The term appears to have arisen in the 18th century, when cross-
equator sailing voyages became more common.
