countdown

noun

count·​down ˈkau̇nt-ˌdau̇n How to pronounce countdown (audio)
: 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 intransitive verb

Examples of countdown in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The structure is the band reunion and countdown to a final concert by Spinal Tap, who we are told disbanded 15 years ago. Mark Kennedy, Boston Herald, 12 Sep. 2025 The countdown has begun and contractors who fail to act are gambling not only with their government revenue but with the security of the nation’s defense supply chain. Emil Sayegh, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2025 The Advent Calendar continues that tradition, making the countdown to Christmas a daily treat. Katie Ann Lehman, StyleCaster, 9 Sep. 2025 On July 1, ESPN confirmed to The Athletic that Moss would return to his role on the Sunday countdown. Natasha Dye, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for countdown

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of countdown was circa 1952

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Cite this Entry

“Countdown.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/countdown. Accessed 15 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

countdown

noun
count·​down ˈkau̇nt-ˌdau̇n How to pronounce countdown (audio)
: the process of counting off backward in fixed units (as seconds) the time remaining before an event (as the launching of a rocket)

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