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

Now, Japan is facing unprecedented headwinds, making foreigners worried. —William Pesek, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024

And Carter blamed excessive regulation for these economic headwinds. —Paul Matzko / Made By History, TIME, 29 Dec. 2024

Discretionary-heavy retailer Target has similarly been hit hard this year, and analysts think its exposure to Chinese goods could create further headwinds. —Pia Singh, CNBC, 20 Dec. 2024

Against a dampened economy and macroeconomic headwinds, the Aventura Mall store opening signals that the brand’s positioning in the premium segment of the fashion market has proved to be a boon. —Martino Carrera, WWD, 20 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1709, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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)