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

However, Wolfe Research predicted Thursday a potential annual headwind of $1.6 billion for Tesla, primarily because of the car components made in Mexico. —Ramishah Maruf, CNN Money, 29 Mar. 2025

Coincidentally, while the global wine market faces some of its most serious headwinds in decades, with some reports indicating stagnation or slight declines in consumption, the drinkware sector continues to expand. —Rachel King, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 2025

Management cited rising consumer uncertainty as a headwind. —Hakyung Kim, CNBC, 28 Mar. 2025

And although climate action faces headwinds from the rising tide of populist politics around the world, this year’s group of honorees remain steadfast in championing sustainability and shaping a greener future. —Time Staff, Time, 27 Mar. 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)