implode

verb

im·​plode im-ˈplōd How to pronounce implode (audio)
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 factionalismJan Hoffman

transitive verb

: to cause to implode

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The praise is also powerful given the long and often violent history between Randy Orton and Triple H. Triple H originally brought a young Orton into WWE as his protégé in the Evolution faction, but their relationship famously imploded when Orton won his first World Heavyweight Championship. Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 July 2025 After falling into disrepair, the hotel was imploded three years ago. Jeffrey Steele, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025 The Magic, once the toast of the league with a young Dwight Howard and an NBA Finals appearance in 2009, were imploding. Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 June 2025 But Rush persisted, even after small-scale prototypes imploded. Eileen Finan, People.com, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for implode

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of implode was in 1881

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Implode.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/implode. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

implode

verb
im·​plode im-ˈplōd How to pronounce implode (audio)
imploded; imploding
: to burst inward

More from Merriam-Webster on implode

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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