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Definition of "halcyon" []

  • A kingfisher, especially one of the genus Halcyon. (noun)
  • A fabled bird, identified with the kingfisher, that was supposed to have had the power to calm the wind and the waves while it nested on the sea during the winter solstice. (noun)
  • Calm and peaceful; tranquil. (adjective)
  • Prosperous; golden: halcyon years. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "halcyon" in a sentence
  • "Last Friday we had a very entertaining time of proofreading the Guide, aided by candy and fave tunes from the 80s provided by Miss Touch-Me Pod, whose little speaker recalls the halcyon days of AM transistor radios."
  • "This is to say nothing of the Marine barracks massacre of 1983, and the innumerable attacks on U.S. embassies and installations around the world during what Obama now characterizes as the halcyon days of U. S.Islamic relations."
  • "At least I recall the halcyon days when we would go to the playground, and I could stand nearby in reasonable proximity."