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

If there is more than one sub at a stoppage, the 10-second countdown begins when the fourth official displays the final two numbers on the board. — Graham Scott, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026

With production underway and fans getting their first look at Croft and Hahn in character, the countdown is officially on for the film's March 31, 2028, theatrical release. — ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026

The countdown to the first day of school is on, and now is the time to start making some adjustments. — John Shumway, CBS News, 10 Aug. 2026

Let your child eat, get dressed and get ready without a countdown hanging over the morning, according to PBS. — Ashley Lynch, Miami Herald, 10 Aug. 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)