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 deepening impact of the Middle East conflict on the economy and a weaker rupee remain significant headwinds. —Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 27 Mar. 2026

These issues reflect the mounting headwinds facing the company, according to Ben Reitzes, an analyst at Melius Research who has a hold rating on the stock. —Bloomberg, Mercury News, 27 Mar. 2026

The Michigan Republican Party meets Saturday, March 28 to endorse statewide candidates for a November election where the state party chairman acknowledges the GOP faces considerable headwinds. —Paul Egan, Freep.com, 27 Mar. 2026

Devitt said midpriced sit-downs have been hollowed out recently and face headwinds, especially in Denver. —Max Scheinblum, Denver Post, 27 Mar. 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)