The term "tailwinds" describes some condition or situation that will help move growth higher. For example, falling gas prices will help a delivery company be more profitable. Lower gas prices is said to be a *tailwind* for the freight services industry.

"Headwinds" are just the opposite. Its a situation what will make growth more difficult. If the price of beef goes much high, McDonald's is facing *headwinds.*

It's a nautical term. If the wind is at your back (tailwind), that will help you move forward more quickly. If you are moving into a headwind, that will only make progress more difficult.