halcyon
UK: ˈhælsiən | US: ˈhælsiən
adj. calm, peaceful, or tranquil (often referring to a past time)
n. a mythical bird associated with calm weather
The word "halcyon" originates from Greek halkyōn, referring to a mythical bird (often identified as a kingfisher) believed to nest on the sea during a period of winter calm. The term evolved metaphorically in English to describe peacefulness, inspired by the legend of the bird’s power to calm winds and waves. The morpheme "halcy" preserves the bird’s name, while "-on" functions as a suffix linking to its attributes.
She reminisced about the halcyon days of her childhood.
The halcyon weather made the picnic perfect.
Artists often depict the halcyon as a symbol of serenity.
His halcyon demeanor soothed everyone in the room.
Legends say the halcyon’s nest floats on tranquil seas.