english word · 2026-07-08

Halcyon

adjective

Meaning

Denoting a period of time in the past that was idyllically happy and peaceful. In a natural context, it refers to calm, tranquil days typically occurring around the winter solstice.

Etymology

From the Greek 'alkuon', referring to a mythical bird that nested on the sea, calming the waves during its breeding season.

Examples

"Old sailors tell tales of the halcyon days of late autumn when the ocean surface becomes as smooth as a mirror."

"The valley remained in a halcyon glow long after the sun had dipped behind the rugged peaks."

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