countless
KOWNT-luhs
Countless (adj) means Too many to count; a very large, unspecified number. Example: “Countless stars were visible in the clear night sky.”
adj
1
Too many to count; a very large, unspecified number.
"Countless stars were visible in the clear night sky."
"She had answered countless emails before lunch."
"Countless volunteers showed up to help after the storm."
How to use countless
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSo many that you couldn't possibly count them all.
Common pairings
countless times
countless hours
countless occasions
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_____ stars were visible in the clear night sky.
Etymology
From count + -less.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for countless
See all rhymes for countless →Frequently asked questions
What does “countless” mean?
The word “countless” means too many to count; a very large, unspecified number. In plain terms, so many that you couldn't possibly count them all.
How do you pronounce “countless”?
“Countless” is pronounced KOWNT-luhs (/ˈkaʊntləs/ in IPA).
How do you use “countless” in a sentence?
Here is “countless” used in a sentence: “She had answered countless emails before lunch.”
What is another word for “countless”?
Words with a similar meaning to “countless” include numberless and incalculable.
What part of speech is “countless”?
“Countless” is an adjective.
Is “countless” a common word?
“Countless” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between 'countless' and 'numerous'?
Both mean many, but 'countless' is stronger, suggesting a number so large it cannot be counted. 'Numerous' simply means many or a large number, without implying that counting is impossible.
What is the difference between 'countless' and 'innumerable'?
The two are very close synonyms, both meaning too many to count. 'Innumerable' is slightly more formal, while 'countless' is more common in everyday speech and writing.
Is 'countless' followed by a singular or plural noun?
'Countless' is followed by a plural countable noun, as in 'countless times' or 'countless people.' It is not normally used with uncountable nouns, so you would say 'countless hours' rather than 'countless time.'
Is 'countless' an exaggeration?
Often, yes. 'Countless' literally means too many to count, but in everyday use it is usually hyperbole for a very large, unspecified number rather than a literally uncountable one. It emphasises abundance rather than a precise figure.
