Dictionary
cold war
noun
the Cold War : the nonviolent conflict between the U.S. and the former U.S.S.R. after 1945
: a conflict or dispute between two groups that does not involve actual fighting
Full Definition of COLD WAR
1
: a conflict over ideological differences carried on by methods short of sustained overt military action and usually without breaking off diplomatic relations; specifically often capitalized C&W : the ideological conflict between the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics during the second half of the 20th century — compare hot war
2
: a condition of rivalry, mistrust, and often open hostility short of violence especially between power groups (as labor and management)
See cold war defined for English-language learners
See cold war defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of COLD WAR
1945
Learn More About COLD WAR
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: cold warriorPrevious Word in the Dictionary: cold typeAll Words Near: cold war
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up cold war? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).