war cloud

American  

noun

1. something that threatens war; a harbinger of conflict.

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Etymology

Origin of war cloud

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

In 1914, Secretary Bryan seemed to be sure that no war cloud threatened.

From Ten Years Near the German Frontier A Retrospect and a Warning by Egan, Maurice Francis

But when the war cloud broke, and responsibility for the welfare of Britain’s subjects and trade interests in China devolved upon him, he compromised.

From Drugging a Nation The Story of China and the Opium Curse by Merwin, Samuel

We shall be strong enough before the war cloud gathers too heavily over England and Germany to prevent the grievous calamity which threatens these nations.

From The Lever A Novel by Orcutt, William Dana

The moment this war cloud began to gather, I thought it would burst over Belgium, and I crossed the frontier from France with the Eagle, to offer my services.

From Secret History Revealed By Lady Peggy O'Malley by Rowe, Clarence H. (Clarence Herbert)

Meanwhile the war cloud in Europe was growing apace.

From The Story of Isaac Brock Hero, Defender and Saviour of Upper Canada, 1812 by Nursey, Walter R.