idyll
UK: /ˈɪd.ɪl/ | US: /ˈaɪ.dəl/
n. a short poem or prose work describing a peaceful, idealized scene of rural life
n. a carefree or romantic episode or experience
n. a scene or event of simple charm or quiet happiness
The word "idyll" traces back to the Greek eidyllion, meaning "little picture" or "short poem." It originally referred to short pastoral poems by ancient Greek poets like Theocritus, depicting idealized rural life. Over time, it broadened to describe any charmingly simple or peaceful scene, whether in literature or reality. The spelling was adapted into Latin as idyllium and later entered English in the 17th century, retaining its core association with serenity and beauty.
The poet wrote an idyll about shepherds resting under olive trees.
Their weekend in the countryside felt like a perfect idyll.
The painting captured the idyll of a sunlit meadow.
Modern life often lacks the idylls described in classical literature.
The novel’s opening chapter creates an idyll shattered by later events.