What does the term "Cold War" refer to?

The term "Cold War" primarily refers to the geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States following World War II. This period was marked by a series of political, military, and ideological conflicts that did not escalate into direct military confrontation between the two superpowers, hence the term "cold" as opposed to "hot." The Cold War encompassed various forms of contest, including arms races, space races, proxy wars, diplomatic maneuvers, and intense propaganda campaigns.

During this era, both nations sought to expand their influence globally, leading to conflicts in various regions, but they maintained an overarching strategy to avoid direct military confrontation. The geopolitical nature of the rivalry had effects on alliances, such as NATO and the Warsaw Pact, and resulted in significant events like the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Korean War, showcasing the intense competition without direct warfare on the European front.

While the other options touch upon various elements associated with the Cold War, such as economic rivalry and ideological differences, the essence of the term is captured best through the lens of the geopolitical tensions that defined international relations during this period.