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.
Taiwan’s central role in the global semiconductor ecosystem is another reason to doubt the countdown. — Ningrong Liu, Fortune, 23 Oct. 2026 With the countdown to the Sixers' home opener in South Philadelphia, there was a buzz in the city Wednesday, especially after the team's win the night before. — Nikki Dementri, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2026 Musk’s wealth faces a countdown Musk also expects his personal fortune to shrink substantially across future generations. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 20 Oct. 2026 The holidays are approaching fast, and there’s no better way to start your annual countdown than with an Advent calendar. — Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 20 Oct. 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 27 Oct. 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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