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

Political experts expect the GOP to retain many of its seats in 2026, but Democrats are hoping to capitalize on recent special election victories and the headwinds typically faced by the president’s political party in mid-term elections. —Mary Ramsey updated December 5, Charlotte Observer, 5 Dec. 2025

But, while Colorado ski resorts that depend heavily on out-of-state visitors are left to wonder what impact those headwinds will have on their business this winter, resorts that cater primarily to Colorado skiers began the 2025-26 ski season with optimism. —John Meyer, Denver Post, 5 Dec. 2025

And, while 2026 presents plenty of headwinds (most years do), some underperforming stocks are set up better than most to go higher, regardless of any short-term hiccups. —Jeff Marks, CNBC, 4 Dec. 2025

Emily Williams Knight, CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association, said restaurant operators are facing myriad headwinds, some of which are unprecedented. —Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Dec. 2025

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)