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gathering

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gathering clouds

A sign of impending trouble or danger. (The "clouds" refer to storm clouds.) There have been gathering clouds in the city for months—I'm nervous that a riot will erupt soon.

See also: cloud, gathering

go gathering orange blossoms

To look for a wife. The phrase refers to the frequent use of orange blossoms as wedding decorations symbolizing the bride's innocence. I'm quite certain that Sir Andrew went to town to go gathering orange blossoms, so we'd best get ready for a wedding!

See also: blossom, gathering, orange