Countdown is a British game show renowned for its word and number puzzles. Contestants compete to form the longest word possible from a selection of randomly generated letters, and to reach a target number using arithmetic operations on a set of given numbers. The show is known for its intellectual challenges, its iconic theme music, and its long-standing hosts and lexicographers who provide expert commentary and word definitions. With its blend of linguistic skill and mathematical prowess, Countdown has been a staple of British television for decades, captivating audiences with its engaging format.