count down

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]

Example Sentences

If he arrives, Grealish would be a marquee signing as the club counts down to their first season at their magnificent new Hill Dickinson Stadium.

From BBC

A giant clock appeared, counting down the minute and a half onstage while he sipped water, vibed with his band and exchanged “woofs” with the crowd.

From Los Angeles Times

A stop clock was also introduced last month where a timer counts down from 60 seconds between overs.

From BBC

Apple also announced that as part of its 10-year anniversary celebration, Apple Music Radio starting on July 1 will start counting down the service’s top 500 most-streamed songs.

From Los Angeles Times

Below are their picks for the top 10 Lions icons, counting down from 10 to one.

From BBC