"Staid the clouds" refers to the calming effect of grey skies and the absence of energetic movements in the atmosphere. Synonyms for this phrase could include "calm the skies," "quiet the clouds," or "still the atmosphere." These phrases all suggest a sense of tranquility and peacefulness, highlighting the subdued nature of the weather. Other potential synonyms for "staid the clouds" might include "tempered the storm," "calmed the tempest," or "quelled the turbulence." All of these phrases imply the presence of strong emotions or forces that have been soothed or subdued, perhaps as a result of the weather or some other external influence.