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.
As the countdown to the 2026 college football season begins, UCF is ready to shift its focus from preseason camp to facing an actual opponent. — Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Aug. 2026 Someone listening to SpaceX's live stream began a countdown from 5 seconds, and everyone went silent and hands and eyes moved to cameras and viewfinders. — Josh Dinner, Space.com, 31 Aug. 2026 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 Livestreams frequently combine limited-time discounts, countdowns and low-stock warnings with product demonstrations. — Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 28 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

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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 4 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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