countdown

[kount-doun]

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.

countdown

/ 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

verb

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of countdown¹

1950–55, noun use of verb phrase count down

Example Sentences

In the countdown to the 2010 Rugby World Cup, her hair began to fall out.

From BBC

In that time, a countdown appeared on her website that corresponded to the episode’s release.

From Salon

The record was simultaneously made available for pre-order on her website - which also had a countdown clock to the moment when she would appear on the podcast.

From BBC

Word arrived after a countdown clock to 12:12 a.m. — an apropos debut for news of her 12th album.

From Los Angeles Times

The forecast, produced by Imperial College London, prompted the mayor's office to trigger the alert, which will be displayed on bus stop countdown boards, London Underground signs and sent to schools and borough councils.

From BBC