war cloud

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of war cloud¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

He can see a war cloud where I can't see annything but somebody cookin' his dinner or lightin' his pipe.

From Project Gutenberg

The war cloud had thinned enough to allow a clearer conception of the work of emancipation.

From Project Gutenberg

It is worth adding that toward the close of this book a war-cloud appears between France and Germany.

From Project Gutenberg

Then along came a war-cloud in Europe; stocks began to drop and provisions to advance.

From Project Gutenberg

But again the war cloud seemed to hover over the establishment, and again the Sheriff's officers appeared in force.

From Project Gutenberg