countdown

American  

[kount-doun] / ˈkaʊntˌdaʊn /

noun

1. the backward counting in fixed time units from the initiation of a project, as a rocket launching, with the moment of firing designated as zero.

2. the final preparations made during this period.

3. a period of increasing activity, tension, or anxiety, as before a deadline.

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countdown British  

/ ˈkaʊntˌdaʊn /

noun

1. the act of counting backwards to time a critical operation exactly, such as the launching of a rocket or the detonation of explosives

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verb

1. to count numbers backwards towards zero, esp in timing such a critical operation

Etymology

Origin of countdown

1950–55, noun use of verb phrase count down

Example Sentences

Throughout a countdown the launch weather officer must be clear and convinced that none of the weather criteria are violated in order to give the weather 'go' call for launch.

From BBC

He is due to face Japan at Wembley on Tuesday - after being rested for the game against Uruguay - as England's final countdown to this summer's World Cup begins.

From BBC

Now the TikTok countdown is on before final exams in Phoenix, where redemption and legacy and a rematch await with either winner of the No. 1 Texas vs.

From Los Angeles Times

Manchester City have been the champions elect for what feels like the whole of 2026 and it has been a slow countdown to their crowning.

From BBC

Controllers will also rehearse parts of the countdown, sending commands through the same computers and networks that will be used on launch day, but without filling the tanks with fuel.

From BBC