under a cloud, to be

Fig. suspected of something. Someone stole some money at work, and now everyone is under a cloud of suspicion. Even the manager is under a cloud.

Under suspicion, in trouble, or out of favor, as in Ever since his brother was accused of fraud, he's been under a cloud. This metaphoric expression calls up the image of a single black cloud hanging over an individual. [c. 1500]

COMMON If someone is under a cloud, they are generally not trusted or are disapproved of, because of something that they have done. The president of the bank resigned under a cloud several weeks ago. He departed as England coach under a cloud over his business dealings. With its leader under a cloud, these are difficult times for the party.

Under suspicion or in a state of disgrace.

To be under suspicion, in trouble, or out of favor. The metaphor calls up the image of sunny blue skies marred by one cloud over the head of a particular individual. Al Capp (1909–79), the cartoonist remembered best for his comic strip “L’il Abner,” included in it one ill-fated character, Joe Btfsplk, who went everywhere with a black cloud hanging over his head and brought misfortune with him. The term was already being used figuratively by 1500.