Final answer:
The base word 'cloud' signifies a literal darkening of the sky due to clouds or a metaphorical state of confusion. It conveys a sense of foreboding or overshadowing in both physical and abstract contexts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The base word "cloud", with the meaning "to darken with clouds; make confused," signifies a state of overcast or muddiness in both a literal and metaphorical sense. In literal terms, it refers to the physical presence of clouds in the sky, obscuring sunlight and causing a darkened environment. Metaphorically, it alludes to a state of confusion or lack of clarity, where situations or thoughts are muddled, akin to how clouds can obscure clear skies. Various texts use the imagery of clouds to convey a sense of foreboding, confusion, or overshadowing of brighter elements, effectively setting a mood that is in line with this base word's meaning.