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Halcyon: meaning, definitions and examples

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halcyon

 

[ ˈhæl.si.ən ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

calm, peaceful

Halcyon refers to a period of time that is characterized by peace, happiness, and tranquil conditions. It often describes a time in the past that is remembered as idyllic or carefree. The term has become synonymous with moments that evoke a sense of nostalgia and serenity. In literature and conversation, 'halcyon days' are often referenced to highlight a time of prosperity and bliss.

Synonyms

calm, idyllic, peaceful, serene, tranquil

Examples of usage

  • The couple reminisced about their halcyon days at the beach.
  • The halcyon summer afternoons spent in her grandmother's garden were unforgettable.
  • He often wondered if those halcyon moments would ever return.

Translations

Translations of the word "halcyon" in other languages:

🇵🇹 halcyon

🇮🇳 शांत

🇩🇪 friedlich

🇮🇩 tenang

🇺🇦 тихий

🇵🇱 spokojny

🇯🇵 穏やかな (odayakana)

🇫🇷 halcyon

🇪🇸 halcyon

🇹🇷 huzurlu

🇰🇷 평화로운 (pyeonghwa-ro-un)

🇸🇦 هادئ (hadi)

🇨🇿 pokojný

🇸🇰 pokojný

🇨🇳 宁静的 (níngjìng de)

🇸🇮 miren

🇮🇸 friðsæll

🇰🇿 тыныш

🇬🇪 მშვენიერი (mshvenieri)

🇦🇿 sakit

🇲🇽 halcyon

Etymology

The word 'halcyon' originates from the ancient Greek word 'alkyōn', which referred to a mythical bird, often associated with the kingfisher. According to legend, the halcyon was said to calm the waves and create a week of peaceful weather during the winter solstice when it laid its eggs on the water. This association with tranquility and prosperity permeated Greek literature and philosophy, leading to the use of 'halcyon' in various contexts to describe idealized conditions. Over time, the term evolved in the English language to denote not just the calmness associated with the bird but also any peaceful or idealized period of time. In modern usage, it evokes a sense of nostalgia for simpler, more serene times.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,340, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.