tailwind

American  

[teyl-wind] / ˈteɪlˌwɪnd /

noun

1. a wind coming from directly behind a moving object, especially an aircraft or other vehicle (opposed to headwind).

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tailwind British  

/ ˈteɪlˌwɪnd /

noun

1. a wind blowing in the same direction as the course of an aircraft or ship Compare headwind

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Etymology

Origin of tailwind

First recorded in 1895–1900; tail ¹ + wind ¹

Explanation

When a strong breeze sends your kite soaring higher into the sky, that helpful gust is a tailwind. A tailwind is a wind that blows in the same direction an aircraft or ship is moving, giving it a helpful boost. In aviation and sailing, a tailwind can help planes and boats move faster and use less fuel. For runners and cyclists, a tailwind can make the journey feel easier and quicker. Whether you're flying, sailing, or just riding your bike, a tailwind is like a friendly push from nature, making your trip smoother and faster.

Example Sentences

NDR acknowledges that AI-driven electricity demand should remain a long-term tailwind for utilities, but say “income alone is no longer a compelling reason to invest in the sector.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 17, 2026

The deal has been a tailwind for Schneider.

From Barron's • Apr. 16, 2026

CEO Jamie Dimon said the results were fueled by continued economic growth and consumer spending, with increased government stimulus and deregulation, along with capital investments in artificial intelligence, providing the tailwind.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

“Underlying the impressive industry growth story is the surge in active ETFs. We expect this tailwind to persist,” he said in a report.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

We are riding a swift tailwind today, and the ship veers starboard quickly, moving us away from the disturbance.

From "Challenger Deep" by Neal Shusterman