halcyon
Say it: HAL-see-un /ˈhælsiən/ · adjective
What “halcyon” means
Calm and happy, especially when remembering a time long ago.
More precisely: Calm, happy and peaceful, usually describing a time in the past remembered fondly.
Example: “She still talks about the halcyon days of their first tiny flat in Lisbon.”
When to use it
For peaceful, happy days you remember fondly, usually with a warm, slightly literary tone.
Similar words
idyllic, golden, carefree
Where it comes from
Greek alkuōn 'kingfisher', a mythical bird believed to calm the sea while nesting.
Quick check
Grandad remembers childhood summers full of swimming, laughter and no worries. How might he describe those days?
hectic or halcyon?
Show the answer
halcyon
Learn 5 new words a day in Kinquire. Each with a picture, how to say it, an example and a quick check, then spaced review so you actually keep them. Free to start.
Learn “halcyon”