n. [ L. halcyon, alcyon, Gr. "alkyw`n, 'alkyw`n: cf. F. halcyon.] (Zool.) A kingfisher. By modern ornithologists restricted to a genus including a limited number of species having omnivorous habits, as the sacred kingfisher (Halcyon sancta) of Australia. [1913 Webster]
Amidst our arms as quiet you shall be As halcyons brooding on a winter sea. Dryden. [1913 Webster]
a. 1. Pertaining to, or resembling, the halcyon, which was anciently said to lay her eggs in nests on or near the sea during the calm weather about the winter solstice. [ 1913 Webster ]