Main Entry: ex·plode

Pronunciation: \ik-ˈsplōd\

Function: verb

Inflected Form(s): ex·plod·ed; ex·plod·ing

Etymology: Latin explodere to drive off the stage by clapping, from ex- + plaudere to clap

Date: 1605

transitive verb 1 archaic : to drive from the stage by noisy disapproval
2 : to bring into disrepute or discredit <explode a theory>
3 : to cause to explode or burst noisily <explode a bomb>intransitive verb 1 : to burst forth with sudden violence or noise from internal energy: as a : to undergo a rapid chemical or nuclear reaction with the production of noise, heat, and violent expansion of gases <dynamite explodes> b : to burst violently as a result of pressure from within
2 a : to give forth a sudden strong and noisy outburst of emotion <exploded in anger> b : to move with sudden speed and force <exploded from the starting gate>
3 : to increase rapidly <the population of the city exploded>
4 : to suggest an explosion (as in appearance or effect) <shrubs exploded with blossoms>

— ex·plod·er noun