headwind

Friendly

Definition:

The word "headwind" is a noun that refers to a wind that blows directly against the direction in which something is moving, such as a ship or an aircraft. It makes moving forward more difficult because the wind pushes against the direction of travel.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "headwind" when talking about travel, especially in contexts related to flying or sailing. It can also be used metaphorically to describe challenges or obstacles in any situation.

Example:

• Literal Use: "The airplane struggled to take off because it was facing a strong headwind."
• Metaphorical Use: "The company faced a headwind in its efforts to increase sales due to the economic downturn."

Advanced Usage:

In advanced contexts, "headwind" might be used in business or economics to describe factors that negatively affect growth or progress. For example, "The new regulations created a headwind for startups trying to enter the market."

Word Variants:

• Headwinds (plural): Referring to multiple instances of this condition or various challenges.
• Headwinded (adjective, less common): Describing something that is affected by a headwind.

Different Meaning:

While "headwind" primarily refers to wind, it can also metaphorically mean any obstacle or difficulty that slows down progress.

Synonyms:

• Obstacle
• Challenge
• Resistance
• Opposition

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are not many direct idioms or phrasal verbs that include "headwind," but you can use phrases like: - "Facing headwinds": This means encountering difficulties or challenges. - Example: "The project is facing headwinds due to budget cuts."

Summary:

In summary, "headwind" describes a wind that blows against the direction of travel, making it harder to move forward. It can also refer to challenges in various contexts.

Academic

Noun

1. wind blowing opposite to the path of a ship or aircraft