countdown

Saying numbers backwards until you reach zero, usually just before something starts.

• The countdown began at ten.
• Everyone joined the countdown before midnight.
• They stopped the countdown five seconds before launch.

How to use it: countdown to something (The countdown to the launch has begun.)

Similar words: backward count

Common phrases: start the countdown, ten second countdown, countdown to launch, launch countdown

The last period of time before something happens or ends.

• The final countdown has begun.
• We are in the countdown to the election.
• The countdown to the closing date felt painfully short.

How to use it: the countdown to something (The countdown to our wedding has begun.)

Similar words: final stretch, run-up

Common phrases: final countdown, countdown to something, begin the countdown

A screen or set of changing numbers showing how much time remains before something happens.

• The countdown appeared on the screen.
• A red countdown showed thirty seconds remaining.
• Press this button to hide the countdown.

Similar words: timer, countdown display

Common phrases: digital countdown, countdown display, on-screen countdown