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

“Yields are becoming a headwind as markets price in more Fed hikes between now and the end of the year,” said Fundstrat’s Tom Lee.

From Barron's • Jun. 23, 2026

Unless bond yields fall, many believe that could prove to be a headwind for stocks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 22, 2026

While BMW is expanding its cost reduction program, the associated restructuring charges will create an additional one-time headwind in the second half, he adds.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 17, 2026

McElligott maintains that all-important Big Tech has turned into a major headwind for markets, just as the artificial-intelligence trade is starting to undergo a shift.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 11, 2026

As they entered the last half mile and came into the lee of the hills at the north end of the lake, the headwind died down.

From "The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics" by Daniel James Brown