Dry spell
Meaning
A dry spell is a period of time during which there is a lack of something that is usually present or expected, often referring to a lack of success, activity, or inspiration.
Origin
Originally, 'dry spell' was a stark meteorological term, the dread of farmers and communities reliant on rain. It depicted the parched earth and withered crops resulting from an extended period of scarce precipitation. This vivid image of natural scarcity and unproductivity naturally extended beyond the literal weather. By the 20th century, it had become a common metaphor, aptly describing any period of unfulfillment, lack of success, or inactivity, whether in a career, a creative pursuit, or even a romantic life, echoing the original sense of waiting for something essential to return.
Examples
- After winning three games in a row, the basketball team hit a dry spell and lost five consecutive matches.
- The author experienced a long dry spell, struggling to write anything new for over a year.