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

Republicans hope that gerrymandering and a backlash to the progressive left will help tip the midterms in their favor despite headwinds. — Nicholas Wu, semafor.com, 24 July 2026

Rollins has continued to see softer demand for its pest control services due to a combination of headwinds, so investors should steer clear of the stock, according to Wells Fargo. — Liz Napolitano, CNBC, 24 July 2026

The job market has been contending with a slew of headwinds recently. — Alicia Wallace, CNN Money, 23 July 2026

Los Angeles production volume fell slightly in the second quarter of 2026, as an increase in state tax incentives has failed to overcome industry headwinds. — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 23 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)