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

Several of the Democratic senators up for reelection were initially elected during years favorable to their party, such as the 2006 backlash to then-President George W. Bush or during then-President Barack Obama’s successful 2012 reelection campaign — and are facing headwinds for the first time. —Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 5 Nov. 2024

The United States faces strong headwinds from cultural conflict, as well as deliberate efforts by domestic and foreign actors to sow divisions, spread disinformation, and create distrust in the system. —Jenna Bednar, Foreign Affairs, 5 Nov. 2024

Several of the Democratic senators up for reelection were initially elected during years favorable to their party, such as the 2006 backlash to then-President George W. Bush or during then-President Obama’s successful 2012 reelection campaign — and are facing headwinds for the first time. —Seema Mehta, Los Angeles Times, 4 Nov. 2024

Polling indicates a tight race, but Osborn too faces headwinds in a state with a heavy Republican lean. —Tal Axelrod, ABC News, 4 Nov. 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)