down in the dumps
Meaning
Feeling very sad, depressed, or discouraged for a period of time.
Origin
Recorded from the 19th century; “dumps” meant melancholy or low spirits (possibly from the sense of being “dumped” or in a dull, heavy state). “Down” reinforces the low mood metaphor.
Notes
Common, informal phrase for being low or discouraged. Usually temporary sadness, not a clinical diagnosis; use carefully if someone may be seriously depressed.
Examples
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After the breakup, he was really down in the dumps for a few weeks.
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I’ve been feeling down in the dumps lately, so I’m taking a day off to reset.
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She looked down in the dumps after getting her exam results.
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Don’t stay down in the dumps—let’s go for a walk and clear your head.
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He gets down in the dumps whenever the weather turns gray and rainy.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically used after linking verbs: “be/feel/seem down in the dumps.” Fairly fixed; “down in the dumps” is the standard form (rarely “in the dumps” alone).
Synonyms
- downhearted
- blue
- sad
- depressed
- gloomy
- in low spirits
Antonyms
- on top of the world
- in high spirits
- cheerful
- upbeat