The expression describes one thing welcome after a interval of absence or problem. It denotes an individual or factor whose look brings pleasure or aid. For example, the surprising arrival of help after a protracted battle might be thought-about this idiom in motion.
The aid supplied provides psychological consolation and might alleviate stress or nervousness. Traditionally, the phrase possible emerged from the bodily sensation of eye pressure, the place one thing visually pleasing would supply respite. The figurative which means has advanced to embody any supply of consolation or aid, not essentially visible.