noun
idyll
ID-il
Idyll (noun) means a short piece of writing, especially a poem, describing peaceful country or pastoral life. Example: “The poet's idylls painted quiet scenes of shepherds and fields.”
noun
1
literary A short piece of writing, especially a poem, describing peaceful country or pastoral life.
"The poet's idylls painted quiet scenes of shepherds and fields."
"She published a collection of idylls set in the countryside."
"His idyll captured a single lazy afternoon by the river."
2
A period or scene of peaceful, simple, and happy life, especially in the countryside.
"Their weekend became a rural idyll of walks and home cooking."
"The island offered a brief idyll away from city life."
"Growing up on the farm felt like a childhood idyll."
How to use idyll
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA peaceful, happy scene or story, often set in the countryside.
When to use it
Idyll is a literary word, more common in writing than everyday speech.
Memory tip
Don't confuse idyll with the homophones idle (not working) and idol (someone admired).
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
rural idyll
pastoral idyll
island idyll
childhood idyll
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The poet's _____ painted quiet scenes of shepherds and fields.
Etymology
Idyll came into English via Latin idyllium, which was borrowed from Ancient Greek eidullion, itself a diminutive of eidos, meaning 'form' or 'shape'.
Frequently asked questions
What does idyll mean?
An idyll is either a short pastoral poem or a peaceful, happy scene of simple life.
Where does the word idyll come from?
It comes from Latin idyllium, borrowed from Greek eidullion, a diminutive of eidos meaning 'form'.
What is a rural idyll?
A rural idyll is a period or scene of peaceful, carefree life in the countryside.
What is the meaning of idyll?
"idyll" (noun) means a short piece of writing, especially a poem, describing peaceful country or pastoral life.
