headwind
/ˈhɛdˌwɪnd/
Word Rarity
Very rare
Frequency: 2.30 in modern English
16
Scrabble Score
8
Letters
2
Syllables
7
Unique Chars
Meaning
noun
A strong force that impedes or reverses progress.
Example Sentences
- ""Domestic economic activity has been gaining traction in spite of formidable headwinds from external developments," the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said in its monthly bulletin."
- "At the same time, Faludi, who is working on a new book about the headwinds feminism is facing, suggested that the movement itself has grown sectarian and insular."
- "“The increasing appetite for obesity drugs will have myriad implications, boosting sectors such as biotech and creating headwinds for industries such as food and beverage,” the bank’s report said."
Etymology
From Middle English *hedwind, from Old English hēafodwind, equivalent to head + wind. Cognate with Old Norse höfuðvindr.
Origin
Word Breakdown
- Root: *hedwind, hēafodwind