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

The early sales offer a glimpse into how Houston’s second-home buyers and retirees remain active despite broader economic headwinds in the real estate market. —Marissa Luck, Houston Chronicle, 4 Apr. 2026

Now, with some signs of de-escalation, gold is facing a different headwind. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 3 Apr. 2026

The request will face strong headwinds on Capitol Hill, where appropriators rejected a similar ask last year. —Eleanor Mueller, semafor.com, 3 Apr. 2026

The case will face serious headwinds on account of the legal requirement of standing. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 3 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1709, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for headwind

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

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)