adjective
halcyon
HAL-see-un/ˈhælsiən/
Peaceful and happy, especially of a past time.
The peaceful garden afternoon feels halcyon.
Etymology
The kingfisher was said to nest on calm winter seas, giving “halcyon days” its image of peace and happiness. The bird name itself is of unknown origin.
In context
in the halcyon days of the age of myth following the destruction of the world
More examples
- The memoir returns to a halcyon childhood by the sea.
- Those halcyon years seemed distant now.
- The painting evokes a halcyon afternoon.
Forms
halcyon · more halcyon · most halcyon
Similar words
- idyllic
- Idyllic means pleasantly peaceful; halcyon often describes a remembered period of happiness.
- tranquil
- Tranquil means calm; halcyon also suggests prosperity or carefree contentment.