countdown

noun

count·​down ˈkau̇nt-ˌdau̇n How to pronounce countdown (audio)
Synonyms of countdownnext
: 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 How to pronounce countdown (audio)
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.
Yet even as his tenure enters its countdown, Duffy continues to lead a critical fight over the regulatory boundaries of derivatives markets. — CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026 The surprise drop kicked off a 60-day countdown for the reissue. — Caché McClay, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026 Stocks drifted to a mixed finish Monday as the countdown ticks toward potentially market-moving events coming later in the week. — Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 24 Aug. 2026 The gang’s very own holiday is on display when Marshall creates a countdown website for Barney’s next slap. — Erin Strecker, Entertainment Weekly, 22 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for countdown

See All Rhymes for countdown

Browse Nearby Words

count calories
countdown
countenance
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Cite this Entry

“Countdown.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/countdown. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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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