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halcyon

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈhælsiən/

KK: /ˈhælsiən/

adjective
Definition

Calm and peaceful; a time that is happy and prosperous.


Example

The halcyon days of summer are perfect for relaxing by the beach.


Conversation
Sloth A
I really miss those halcyon days we spent at the beach during summer.
Sloth B
Those were great times, just relaxing and enjoying the sun.
Sloth A
Yeah, everything felt so peaceful and carefree back then.
Sloth B
I agree, I wish we could go back to that vibe sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
peaceful
serene
tranquil
Antonyms
chaotic
turbulent
stormy
noun
Definition

A mythical bird, often associated with the kingfisher, believed to calm the sea and winds while nesting during winter.


Example

The legend says that the halcyon can calm the stormy seas.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard the story about the halcyon?
Sloth B
Yes, it's fascinating how it's linked to calming the sea.
Sloth A
I found it interesting that people believed it nested on the water during winter.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Halcyon comes from the Greek word 'alkyōn' (ἁλκυών), which refers to a kingfisher, a bird associated with calm and peaceful weather. The term is often linked to the myth of the halcyon days, a period of tranquility during winter when the kingfisher would nest on the sea, calming the waters. Thus, 'halcyon' signifies a time of peace and happiness.

Memory Tip

Imagine the kingfisher, a bird that brings calmness to the sea, to remember that 'halcyon' refers to peaceful and happy times.

Visually Confused Words
alcyon
chalcon
alcyone
chalcone
calcydon
alcyonic
alcyones
Is this page helpful?
Right? It’s amazing how myths can connect nature and culture like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
kingfisher
bird
fable
Antonyms
storm
chaos
turmoil