We often talk about the halcyon days of our childhood.
halcyon days
idiomA period of calm, usually in the past and often nostalgic.
Origin
disputed originFrom halcyon, from Latin Alcyone, from Ancient Greek Ἀλκυόνη (Alkuónē), daughter of Aeolus and wife of Ceyx. When her husband died in a shipwreck, Alcyone threw herself into the sea whereupon the gods transformed them both into halcyon birds (kingfishers). When Alcyone made her nest on the beach, waves threatened to destroy it. Aeolus restrained his winds and kept them calm during seven days in each year, so she could lay her eggs. These became known as the "halcyon days," when storms do not occur. Today, the term is used to denote a past period that is being remembered for being happy or successful.
Looking at old photos, she remembered the halcyon days when they spent every summer by the quiet lake.
The aging writer often retreated into his memories, seeking comfort in the halcyon days of his youth before the weight of fame changed his life.
- 01
all one's born days
One's whole life.
- 02
bad old days
The past, seen as a time when things were worse.
- 03
count one's days
To prepare for imminent retribution or termination.
- 04
day of days
A particularly noteworthy day; the day on which a milestone or especially memorable event occurs.
- 05
days of yore
The past; bygone days.
- 06
it's early days
Indicating it is too soon to know the outcome of a situation, often implying it is too early to make a judgment or prediction.
- 07
one's days are numbered
Some period of time, such as a term of employment or a lifetime, is coming to an end.
- 08
salad days
A period of inexperienced youthful innocence accompanied by enthusiasm and idealism.