What does the term "Cold War" refer to?

The term "Cold War" specifically refers to the prolonged period of political and military tension that existed primarily between the United States and the Soviet Union after World War II, lasting approximately from the late 1940s until the early 1990s. This era was characterized by ideological conflict, nuclear arms races, and various forms of indirect confrontation, such as proxy wars and espionage, rather than direct military conflict between the two superpowers.

During the Cold War, both the United States and the Soviet Union sought to expand their influence globally, which resulted in a series of regional conflicts, a significant buildup of nuclear weapons, and a deep-rooted ideological divide that shaped international relations for decades. The tension was further amplified by notable events like the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Korean War.

Understanding this term in context clarifies that it is not about direct military engagements like the one involving Vietnam nor about economic competitions such as those with China. Moreover, it does not refer to any peace treaty established after World War II, which would indicate a cessation of hostilities rather than the ongoing tensions implied by the term "Cold War."