implode

verb

im·​plode im-ˈplōd 

imploded; imploding

intransitive verb

1

a

: to burst inward

a blow causing a vacuum tube to implode

b

: to undergo violent compression

massive stars which implode

2

: to collapse inward as if from external pressure

also : to become greatly reduced as if from collapsing

3

: to break down or fall apart from within : self-destruct

… the firm … imploded from greed and factionalism.

—Jan Hoffman

transitive verb

: to cause to implode

Synonyms of implode

• collapse

Examples of implode in a Sentence

a controlled demolition during which the entire building imploded in a matter of seconds

Recent Examples on the Web

The ecosystem of people who rely on a strictly online audience or clients for their revenues risks imploding. —Rachel Marsden, Hartford Courant, 21 June 2026

The Bank opened in 2004 in the parking lot next to the Vet, which was imploded. —Barry M. Bloom, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026

With the craft's communications failing within the first two hours, the submersible imploded upon descent, resulting in their instantaneous deaths. —Dan Snierson, Entertainment Weekly, 16 June 2026

However, then everything fell apart as the offense imploded in the second half. —Joe Vardon, New York Times, 11 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

in- entry 2 + -plode (as in explode)

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a

Rhymes for implode

• abode
• anode
• barcode
• bestowed
• boatload
• borrowed
• carload
• caseload
• cathode
• commode
• corrode
• crossroad

Kids Definition

implode

verb

im·​plode im-ˈplōd 

imploded; imploding

: to burst inward