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 singer’s twelfth studio album, which is due out October 3, has become the most pre-saved project in the history of Spotify’s countdown page feature, according to the streaming platform. —Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025

Without notice or a countdown, the shooters open fire, and each of them shoots a single round at the target. —Kevin Fixler, Idaho Statesman, 2 Sep. 2025

Kansas City’s countdown from zero is just a few ticks away, leading up to this iconic nu-metal band’s return to the city. —Joseph Hernandez august 29, Kansas City Star, 29 Aug. 2025

The countdown itself becomes connective. —Anna Pulley, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2025

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)