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 brand sources its whiskey from other distilleries, but in 2022 it was announced that Pernod would build a dedicated distillery and warehouses for the brand, proof of its success and belief in the future of American whiskey (which, admittedly, is currently facing some headwinds). —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 10 Apr. 2025

In its monetary policy statement, the Reserve Bank of India noted that tariffs have increased uncertainties clouding the economic outlook across regions, posing new headwinds for global growth and inflation. —Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 9 Apr. 2025

Recent analyst reports point to tariffs as the latest in a long list of headwinds having a negative impact on consumer spending that include inflation and rising debt. —Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 7 Apr. 2025

The results show some political headwinds for Trump and Republicans. —Domenico Montanaro, NPR, 2 Apr. 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)