Definition of the word dry spell

The term "dry spell" originated in the context of weather forecasting, particularly to describe periods of abnormally low precipitation. In the mid-19th century, weather reports started to include more detailed descriptions of atmospheric conditions, and meteorologists would often note that there had been a "span of dry weather" in a particular area. This phrase evolved into the more concise "dry spell," which became widely used in weather reports and everyday language by the late 1800s. Over time, the meaning of the term expanded to encompass any prolonged period of relative barrenness or lack of activity in various domains, from sports and entertainment to business and social life. In essence, a dry spell suggests a temporary lull or dearth of something previously abundant, with the hope that good times will return soon.