countdown
Countdown (noun) means a count backward toward a set moment, especially a launch or the start of an event. Example: “The crowd chanted along with the countdown to midnight.”
How to use countdown
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCounting backward toward zero before something happens.
Word forms
countdowned past tense, countdowns plural, countdowns singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The crowd chanted along with the _____ to midnight.
Etymology
From count + down, originally popularized by rocket launches.
Synonyms
View more →Frequently asked questions
What does “countdown” mean?
The word “countdown” means a count backward toward a set moment, especially a launch or the start of an event. In plain terms, counting backward toward zero before something happens.
How do you pronounce “countdown”?
“Countdown” is pronounced KOWNT-down (/ˈkaʊntˌdaʊn/ in IPA).
How do you use “countdown” in a sentence?
Here is “countdown” used in a sentence: “The crowd chanted along with the countdown to midnight.”
What part of speech is “countdown”?
“Countdown” is a noun.
Is “countdown” a common word?
“Countdown” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is countdown typically used for?
A countdown is a count backward toward a set moment, especially a launch or the start of an event. It is commonly associated with rocket launches, New Year celebrations, and event timers.
What is the difference between countdown and timer?
A countdown specifically counts backward toward a fixed target moment, such as a launch time, while a timer more generally measures elapsed or remaining time and doesn't always imply a dramatic buildup to a specific event.
Where does the term countdown come from?
The term countdown became widely known through rocket launches, where numbers are counted backward to zero before liftoff, and it has since been applied to any backward count toward a significant moment.