Countdown: meaning, definitions and examples
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countdown
[ ˈkaʊntdaʊn ]
timed event
A countdown is the backward counting to indicate the time remaining before a scheduled event, especially in relation to a launch or celebration. It is commonly used in contexts such as rockets launching or New Year’s celebrations. The countdown usually begins from a predetermined number, decreasing until it reaches zero. This signifies that the event is about to occur, evoking excitement and anticipation. Furthermore, countdowns are often marked by distinct sounds, lights, or visual displays that enhance the experience.
Synonyms
backward count, counting down, timer.
Examples of usage
- The countdown for the rocket launch began ten minutes before liftoff.
- As the countdown to midnight approached, everyone in the room grew anxious.
- We watched the countdown on the screen as the event drew near.
- She joined the countdown for her birthday party with friends.
- The countdown for the marathon started at five.
Translations
Translations of the word "countdown" in other languages:
🇵🇹 contagem regressiva
🇮🇳 गिनती
🇩🇪 Rückwärtszählung
🇮🇩 penghitungan mundur
🇺🇦 відлік
🇵🇱 odliczanie
🇯🇵 カウントダウン
🇫🇷 décompte
🇪🇸 cuenta regresiva
🇹🇷 geri sayım
🇰🇷 카운트다운
🇸🇦 العد التنازلي
🇨🇿 odpočet
🇸🇰 odpočet
🇨🇳 倒计时
🇸🇮 odštevanje
🇮🇸 niðurtelja
🇰🇿 кері санау
🇬🇪 უკუკუნათება
🇦🇿 geriyə sayım
🇲🇽 cuenta regresiva
Etymology
The term 'countdown' originated from the combination of 'count' and 'down', both of which have Old and Middle English roots. The verb 'count' derives from the Latin 'computare', meaning to calculate or reckon, while 'down' comes from the Old English term 'dūne', meaning down or downward. The specific use of 'countdown' to refer to the backward counting process began to surface around the mid-20th century, particularly with the rise of space exploration. The concept became popularized during the Apollo missions, where the precise timing of rocket launches was critical. As technology advanced and event planning became more global, the countdown concept expanded beyond space travel to encompass celebrations, sports events, and other timed occurrences. Today, the use of countdowns has permeated various aspects of modern life, serving as a tool for excitement and anticipation across different cultures.