headwind

noun

head·​wind ˈhed-ˌwind 

plural headwinds

1

: a wind having the opposite general direction to a course of movement (as of an aircraft)

2

: a force or influence that inhibits progress

Power-plant construction is facing headwinds in the U.S. as renewable energy projects and slack demand throw the economics of new generators into question.

—Thomas Black

For generations, the tribe has been leaning into cultural headwinds to preserve a language on the brink of extinction.

—Kevin Simpson

The plan faces political headwinds from both sides of the aisle …

—Heidi M. Przybyla

Examples of headwind in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That fueled fears that on a per-user basis, Netflix’s engagement is decelerating, indicating headwinds for subscription and ad revenue growth. — Todd Spangler, Variety, 17 July 2026

Margins, however, faced the same fuel surcharge headwinds that weighed on its former parent. — Alexa Lomonaco, CNBC, 16 July 2026

Unlike caviar, though, Chinese foie gras will also face headwinds in America as animal-rights activists continue fighting to get the duck and goose liver banned. — Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 13 July 2026

The zoo is facing headwinds as membership has declined precipitously and facilities have deteriorated, according to an Los Angeles County civil grand jury report. — Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1709, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for headwind

• chagrined
• downwind
• rescind
• upwind
• whirlwind
• woodwind
• finned
• ginned
• grinned
• pinned
• sinned
• skinned

Kids Definition

headwind

noun

head·​wind -ˌwind 

: a wind blowing in a direction opposite to a course of movement (as of a ship or aircraft)