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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Teams worked feverishly through the final countdown. Neal Rubin, Freep.com, 12 July 2025 The countdown to Coco walking down the aisle is on. Michael Saponara, Billboard, 11 July 2025 On August 12 this year, a number of articles will be published and a lot of fuss will be made about the one-year countdown to mainland Europe's first eclipse in a generation. Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025 Friday marks the start of a countdown to America’s 250th birthday next year, and rarely has the nation felt so divided. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 4 July 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 25 Jul. 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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