How Do You Spell GATHERING CLOUDS?

Pronunciation: [ɡˈaðəɹɪŋ klˈa͡ʊdz] (IPA)

The phrase "gathering clouds" refers to the sight of clouds coming together, often a precursor to a storm. The spelling of "gathering" is straightforward, with the "g" pronounced hard as in "get" and the "a" pronounced as in "cat." The word "clouds" is trickier, as it features the somewhat elusive sound of "ou" as in "house," followed by the "d" and "s" sounds. In IPA transcription, it would be written as /ˈɡæðərɪŋ klaʊdz/.

GATHERING CLOUDS Meaning and Definition

  1. Gathering clouds refer to the gradual accumulation or approaching concentration of clouds in the sky, typically indicating the imminent onset of unfavorable weather conditions or the possibility of an impending storm. This term is often used metaphorically to describe a situation or event in which problems, tensions, or dangers are intensifying or looming in the near future.

    In the literal sense, gathering clouds can be observed when various atmospheric factors converge, such as a shift in wind direction, a decrease in barometric pressure, or an increase in humidity. These conditions cause moisture to condense in the atmosphere, resulting in the formation of clouds. As the clouds begin to accumulate and grow in size, they can darken the sky, blocking sunlight and creating a visible barrier between the observer and the blue heavens.

    In the figurative sense, gathering clouds can describe a situation where troubles or difficulties steadily accumulate or multiply, creating an ominous or threatening atmosphere. This expression conveys a sense of impending trouble, tension, or conflict, often suggesting a culmination or climax that can lead to significant consequences or changes. Just as gathering clouds in the sky precede a storm, the gathering clouds in a figurative context indicate the approach of challenging or turbulent times, urging individuals or groups to be prepared or take appropriate action to mitigate or address the impending difficulties.

Common Misspellings for GATHERING CLOUDS

  • gathering cloudr
  • gatherinngclouds
  • gatheringclowuds
  • gathewringclouds
  • g athering clouds
  • ga thering clouds
  • gat hering clouds
  • gath ering clouds
  • gathe ring clouds
  • gather ing clouds
  • gatheri ng clouds
  • gatherin g clouds
  • gathering c louds
  • gathering cl ouds
  • gathering clo uds
  • gathering clou ds
  • gathering cloud s

Etymology of GATHERING CLOUDS

The etymology of the phrase "gathering clouds" can be understood by examining the individual words within it:

1. Gathering: The word "gathering" originates from the Old English word "gaderian" which meant "to bring together" or "to assemble". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "gadurōną", meaning "to unite" or "to join together".

2. Clouds: The term "clouds" is derived from the Old English word "clud", which evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "kludan" or "klut", meaning "a mass of rock" or "a lump". In the context of weather, "clouds" refer to masses of condensed water vapor suspended in the atmosphere.

When combined, the phrase "gathering clouds" suggests the act of clouds coming together or assembling in the sky.

Idioms with the word GATHERING CLOUDS

  • gathering clouds The idiom "gathering clouds" refers to a situation or series of events that suggest potential trouble or a forthcoming disaster. It often implies a sense of looming danger or uncertainty.