halcyon
1 of 2noun/ˈhælsiən/
Forms:halcyons
1
a genus of large, brightly colored kingfishers commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Oceania
- The halcyon perched silently above the river, scanning for fish.
- In Sri Lanka, the halcyon is a familiar sight along forested streams.
- With its vivid plumage and stout bill, the halcyon stood out among the other birds.
- The halcyon's call echoed through the mangroves at dawn.
- Birdwatchers were thrilled to spot a halcyon during their trip to Borneo.
Synonyms:
2
a mythical bird that nests on the sea during the winter solstice and possesses the magical ability to calm storms and winds
- Sailors prayed for halcyon days, hoping the mythical bird would still the raging sea.
- Ancient poets described the halcyon's nest floating peacefully on the ocean waves.
- The halcyon was believed to bring tranquility to the waters during its breeding season.
- Legends say the halcyon's song could lull even the fiercest storm into silence.
- The halcyon became a symbol of peace and serenity in maritime folklore.
3
a woman who, after tragedy, was transformed into a kingfisher by the gods in Greek mythology, symbolizing love and peace
- Halcyon's myth tells of her devotion to her husband, Ceyx, even after his death.
- The gods, moved by Halcyon's grief, turned her into a kingfisher to reunite her with Ceyx.
- Halcyon's transformation became a tale of eternal love and divine compassion.
- Halcyon's name lives on as a symbol of peaceful days and enduring love.
- The myth of Halcyon inspired poets to write about loss, metamorphosis, and serenity.
Synonyms: