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

It was not merely because she could not have her own way, but rather that she felt the shadow of the impending war cloud hanging over the country.

From Brenda's Bargain A Story for Girls by Reed, Helen Leah

Nothing but evil could be predicated of such a combination; and Sir John was not slow to take advantage of his position, when the war cloud was ready to burst.

From An Historical Account of the Settlements of Scotch Highlanders in America by MacLean, J. P. (John Patterson)

To the people, it brought a strong ray of hope to brighten the darkness of the war cloud.

From Belford's Magazine, Volume II, No. 8, January, 1889 by Various

The war cloud had not burst with all its fury over a happy land, and the people were quietly pursuing their avocations.

From The Spy of the Rebellion Being a True History of the Spy System of the United States Army during the Late Rebellion, by Pinkerton, Allan

When the war cloud disappeared many of the soldiers settled down at the place.

From The Strange Story of Harper's Ferry With Legends of the Surrounding Country by Barry, Joseph