What does the cloud symbol mean when trying to download an app?

That means that the app was in fact purchased with your Apple ID and can be downloaded again for free using your Apple ID and password. It is tied to your account. Somebody bought it with your ID. Tap the cloud icon to download the app.

Regardless of the cloud icon which does not make sense to me, try this FWIW:

Close the App Store completely from the app switcher window by double clicking the Home button and swiping up the App Store preview pane until it disappears from the screen. You may have to look for the App Store pane by scrawling to the left.

Then sign out of the iTunes Store (in Settings).

Then do a forced restart. Hold down the Home and Wake/Sleep buttons at the same time for about 15-20 seconds until the Apple logo appears.

Then sign back into the iTunes Store.

henrygx wrote:

I have not purchased this app nor have I been charged for it.

That is actually not possible. Demo provided the solution.

To review your purchases, use iTunes on your computer. Go to Store > View Apple ID (using the Apple ID and password in question). Scroll down to "Purchase History", then click "See All" on the right. You will find it there.

henrygx wrote:

I have not purchased this app nor have I been charged for it. That's why it has puzzled me. I was/am aware about the purchased indicator. thank you anyway.

Keep in mind that even free apps get "purchased" when you download them to a particular device.

We have no idea if you are a first time user or a seasoned veteran, so please don't pull that card on us. We are just trying to help as best we can. Maybe if you would have explained the situation in more detail, you would have received better responses.

Now can you post a screenshot? Or would that expose too much to us?

henrygx wrote:

I am not "pulling that card". I was simply responding to your adamant statement "that's impossible" when I am actually looking right at it on my screen. Perhaps you should take your own advice and tone it down so you won't get responses like mine. Anyway, the problem is solved. I decided to take the advice of the guy that suggested a complete restart with a new login. It worked.

You are welcome.

OK, can you post a screenshot of this icon and the app? Does it look like this icon? I downloaded this in the past but deleted it from my iPad,

High quality answers come in response to high quality questions. When questions are extremely basic and devoid of detail, responses are going to start out VERY basic.

I'm not the one that told you it was impossible. I'm glad that you found your solution.