dark cloud
2
4.2
- noun
- Informal
:
nube oscura
- However, the experience taught me that some people cannot be pleased, and making the rent would be easier to do without the dark cloud that had been hanging over my head.
- a dark cloud looming
- a dark cloud hanging
Examples
-
With the ongoing crises, there seems to be a dark cloud that hangs over the nation, causing widespread concern.
-
This thing came up with a dark cloud that lasted for a period of time and indicated what a real thermonuclear war would be like: a black period over the whole area of relevance and the sign of doom.
Blog text (1) -
Indeed, among them, the thought "what does this guy think he is playing at?" is so palpable as to be felt, hanging in the air like a dark cloud of smoke, clearly spelling out the message.
Blog text (1) -
Superstorm Sandy's economic effects are popping up like the dark clouds of a hurricane.
Blog text (1) -
The recent layoffs created a dark cloud over the entire office, making everyone feel uneasy.
-
As the news of the company's financial troubles spread, a dark cloud loomed over the employees' morale.
Synonyms
176
6.1
A feeling of doubt or worry that harms someone's reputation
20
3.6
Low light or darkness that makes a place feel sad
8
8.0
A sad heavy feeling that hangs over a place
Antonyms
How Gloomy
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning arises from combining 'dark' (gloomy/ominous) with 'cloud' (a thing that can figuratively represent trouble or gloom); a learner who knows both words can often infer the metaphorical sense, but only if they recognise the figurative use of 'cloud'. Because this requires a metaphorical extension rather than strict literal composition, and relies on some prior exposure to cloud-as-trouble, it is best classified as semi-transparent.
Etymology
Dark cloud comes from the image of a heavy, dark cloud in the sky that blocks the sun and brings bad weather, making everything feel dull and sad. So, a dark cloud now means 'a feeling of gloom' or 'a problem that spoils happy times'.