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

Pangram has recently been credited with helping implode a lucrative book deal and unmasking AI use at The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal. — Brendan Ruberry, semafor.com, 2 Sep. 2026

If Brown can’t return and Cabrera doesn’t succeed in a leverage role, Counsell’s other viable options to join Palencia and Webb are Zeferjahn, Ryan Rolison and Trent Thornton, who imploded in Friday’s loss. — Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026

With the offense doing just enough and TCU imploding in the same way UNC so often did a year ago, the Tar Heels pulled off this feel-good upset despite only scoring a single touchdown. — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 30 Aug. 2026

But the high hopes for that threesome imploded after the Mavericks sent Doncic to the Lakers for Anthony Davis in a deal before the trade deadline in 2025. — ABC News, 23 Aug. 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