headway

¹

[hed-wey]

noun

1. forward movement; progress in a forward direction.

   The ship's headway was slowed by the storm.

2. progress in general.

   headway in a career.

3. rate of progress.

   a slight headway against concerted opposition.

4. the time interval or distance between two vehicles, as automobiles, ships, or railroad or subway cars, traveling in the same direction over the same route.

headway

²

[hed-wey]

noun

1. headroom.

headway

/ ˈhɛdˌweɪ /

noun

1. motion in a forward direction

   the vessel made no headway

2. progress or rate of progress

   he made no headway with the problem

3. another name for headroom

4. the distance or time between consecutive trains, buses, etc, on the same route

Word History and Origins

Origin of headway¹

First recorded in 1700–10; (a)head + way ¹

Origin of headway²

First recorded in 1700–10; head + way ¹

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. make headway, to proceed forward; advance; progress.

see make headway.

Example Sentences

Yet she still wanted to have kids, though not before she found the right husband and made some headway in a career marked by small triumphs, such as booking commercials and webisodes.

From Los Angeles Times

Making headway in localized markets, Howard — who has played overseas several times throughout his career — says the league can also tap into those international markets with smart decisions and profitability.

From Los Angeles Times

This could be a sign that the region is finally making some headway in its fight to end homelessness.

From Los Angeles Times

Before discussions resumed on Tuesday, a Palestinian source familiar with the talks told the BBC they have not made any headway.

From BBC

Either way, Arsenal are understood to have made headway with a potential move for Gyokeres in recent days.

From BBC

Related Words

• advancement