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 Sox held a 5-0 lead before Davis Martin imploded in the sixth, and Bryan Hudson added fuel to the fire in an eight-run inning that turned the game upside-down. — Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 25 July 2026

Unlike resilin in other insects, for which the protein typically acts as a passive energy storage system or exoskeleton protection, the resilin in these lake flies plays an active role in ensuring their air sacs don’t implode at depth. — Mary Randolph, Scientific American, 23 July 2026

Some candidates have imploded in spectacular fashion, jeopardizing races the party had expected to win. — Jill Colvin, Fortune, 23 July 2026

Still, even as multiple locations and villains pile up, the bond between Agency handler Sam and tech phenom Queenie (Savannah Steyn) keeps the dramedy from imploding. — Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 15 July 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