headwind
Say it: HED-wind /ˈhɛdwɪnd/ · noun
What “headwind” means
Something that makes progress harder.
More precisely: A force or situation that slows progress.
Example: “Rising interest rates are a headwind for the housing market.”
When to use it
In business or economic commentary, when describing an outside pressure that slows growth or makes success harder.
Memory trick
Picture cycling into a strong wind that pushes you backwards.
Similar words
obstacle, drag, setback
Where it comes from
Originally a wind blowing directly against a ship or plane.
Quick check
A furniture shop wants to expand, but rising timber costs keep slowing its plans. Those costs are…
a tailwind or a headwind?
Show the answer
a headwind
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