count down

Idioms  

1. Count backward from any number to zero to indicate time, as in The final seconds before take off were counted down: 10, 9, 8, etc . The down in this term refers to the decreasing size of the numbers. This usage originated in connection with the firing of missiles and spacecraft and has since been broadened to such events as the roll call of states at a political convention. [c. 1950]

2. Make final preparations for an event, as in Hong Kong was counting down to the day when it became part of mainland China . This usage is derived from def. 1. [Late 1950s]

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Example Sentences

As far as the meteorological calendar is concerned, we are still counting down the final days of autumn, notable this year for its vibrant autumn colours and changeable, whiplash-like weather patterns.

From BBC

Asher says that as he grew up, he was "absent-mindedly counting down the days until I was able to find out who my father is and be able to meet him".

From BBC

Friday’s filing came as Berkshire investors and observers begin to count down the final days of Buffett’s long run as chief executive and top investor.

From The Wall Street Journal

If you’re already counting down to February’s Grammy Awards, here’s something to hold you over — the nominations announcement is just around the corner.

From Los Angeles Times

The number of active U.S. oil rigs has fallen by 65 so far this year, with the weekly count down by six, to 414 rigs as of Oct.

From MarketWatch