countdown

noun

count·​down ˈkau̇nt-ˌdau̇n 

: an audible backward counting in fixed units (such as seconds) from an arbitrary starting number to mark the time remaining before an event

also : preparations carried on during such a count

count down

ˈkau̇nt-ˈdau̇n 

intransitive verb

Examples of countdown in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The countdown to bedlam When the Knicks win, the city transforms. —Alaa Elassar, CNN Money, 14 June 2026

Until the doors open in 2027, North Carolinians will have to wait a little longer for their first taste of Beaver Nuggets and brisket sandwiches close to home, but with construction now underway, the countdown to the state's first Buc-ee's has officially begun. —Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 12 June 2026

There are now five-second countdowns for goal kicks and throw-ins. —Russell Lewis, NPR, 12 June 2026

If the referee considers that a throw-in or goal kick is taking too long or is being deliberately delayed, the referee can initiate a five‑second visual countdown. —Kierra Frazier, CBS News, 11 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1952, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for countdown

• adown
• blowdown
• breakdown
• crackdown
• crosstown
• downtown
• drawdown
• dropdown
• facedown
• godown
• hometown
• knockdown

Kids Definition

countdown

noun

count·​down ˈkau̇nt-ˌdau̇n 

: the process of counting off backward in fixed units (as seconds) the time remaining before an event (as the launching of a rocket)