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

Much like Merz, Stefan Persson, son of the H and M founder and himself over 70 years old, is attempting to create a turnaround for the veteran fast fashion giant by expanding his equity stake as company growth faces headwinds. — CNBC, 25 Sep. 2026

Macy’s investments and restructuring efforts reflect the increasing role that AI has been playing in the logistics industry, which is expected to further enhance efficiency and help companies survive headwinds. — Roy Stephen Canivel, Footwear News, 25 Sep. 2026

The potential for tariffs to increase prices adds to the headwinds facing Republican candidates. — Justine McDaniel, Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026

Many of the experts surveyed noted that, along with healthcare and economic headwinds, there is an undue caretaking burden placed on women, as well as insufficient services and protections for women of color and LGBTQIA+ women. — Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 22 Sep. 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)