headwind

American  

[hed-wind] / ˈhɛdˌwɪnd /

noun

1. a wind opposed to the course of a moving object, especially an aircraft or other vehicle (opposed to tailwind).

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headwind British  

/ ˈhɛdˌwɪnd /

noun

1. a wind blowing directly against the course of an aircraft or ship Compare tailwind

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headwind Scientific  

/ hĕd′wĭnd′ /

1. A wind blowing directly against the course of a moving object, especially an aircraft or ship.

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Etymology

Origin of headwind

First recorded in 1780–90; (a)head + wind ¹

Example Sentences

That’s led to soaring costs, a boon for memory makers like Micron Technology and a headwind for phone makers.

From Barron's • May 27, 2026

The massive IPO is also raising concerns that Tesla investors will sell Tesla stock to buy SpaceX, creating a headwind for Tesla.

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

She raises her 2026 fuel cost assumptions by 15% and says that uncertainty over fuel prices remains a significant headwind for the carrier.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026

In the short run, Petrie doesn’t think there are many levers available for the company to offset the $500 million headwind in FY27.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

A strong headwind was blowing, but the temperature was well above zero.

From "Black Star, Bright Dawn" by Scott O'Dell