dry spell
Americannoun
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a prolonged period of dry weather.
-
a period of little or no productivity or activity, low income, etc.
Etymology
Origin of dry spell
First recorded in 1885–90
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
While that dry spell will draw empty stares from fans in Seattle, Pittsburgh or San Diego, it’s a fiasco for a franchise that’s won 27 of them and regards October silverware as its birthright.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 9, 2026
The “Whisper Man” actor on being a social outcast, hitting a dry spell after “The Aviator” and turning his dream of performing into a reality.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 26, 2026
Not enough rain will fall to alleviate the recent dry spell, with experts warning that months of persistent wet weather is needed to replenish water supplies.
From BBC ● Aug. 26, 2026
Like many European countries, the Netherlands has been hit by a historic summer drought caused by a prolonged dry spell, exceptional heat and intense evaporation.
From Barron's ● Aug. 15, 2026
The water level would rise after a rainstorm and fall during a dry spell.
From "The Wild Robot Protects" by Peter Brown
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
