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
Cite this Entry
“Headwind.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/headwind. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
