Crossword Genius

A blow in the face? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

headwind

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'the face?' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot understand how they can define each other.

'a blow' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'a' is present in the answer.
'blow' could be 'wind' and 'wind' is found within the answer.
The remaining letters 'hed' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for headwind that I've seen before include "opposing force" , "Current of air blowing into the bow of ship" , "It blows straight into your face" , "Stiff breeze blowing directly in front" , "Contrary breeze" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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