: 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

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.
Allstate will sponsor an on-screen countdown clock, letting viewers know how much time is left before the main event starts. Brian Steinberg, Variety, 14 Feb. 2025 At the time, the countdown also teased that the graphics card was slated to launch on Feb. 20. Michael Kan, PCMAG, 11 Feb. 2025 The countdown to the premiere has begun, and one thing is clear—this season is set to be the most intense yet. Okla Jones, Essence, 11 Feb. 2025 But more is needed, and perhaps as a result, the countdown has started. Doug Haller, The Athletic, 7 Feb. 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

Dictionary Entries Near countdown

Cite this Entry

“Countdown.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/countdown. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

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

More from Merriam-Webster on countdown

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