count down
A2 neutral inseparable both
In simple words
To count backwards from a big number to zero, or to wait excitedly for something to happen.
Literal meaning: To count in a downward direction — fully transparent.
Meanings
1 A2 neutral
To count backward from a given number to zero, especially before a significant event.
"Mission Control began counting down from ten as the rocket sat on the launchpad."
"Three, two, one — we have ignition."
— NASA Apollo 11 launch broadcast, 1969
Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral
To eagerly anticipate an upcoming event by tracking the remaining time.
"The children were counting down the days until Christmas."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Used both literally (rocket launches, New Year's Eve) and figuratively (counting down to a holiday, exam). The noun 'countdown' is very common.
Commonly used with
launch New Year holiday final seconds clock
Forms
Base
count down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
counts down
he/she/it
Past simple
counted down
yesterday
Past participle
counted down
have + pp
-ing form
counting down
continuous
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