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

Kyle Chandler played John Rayburn, the family’s sheriff son and main character who tried to stop his family from imploding. — Miami Herald, 23 Sep. 2026

While the Bruins’ offense exploded, their defense imploded, giving up 38 points and 488 yards to the Boilermakers. — Connor Dullinger, Los Angeles Times, 21 Sep. 2026

But rookie starter David Sandlin fell apart in the fifth, and the bullpen imploded in a five-run eighth to give the game away. — Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 19 Sep. 2026

But about five minutes later, a sharp cracking sound momentarily replaced the shrill squeal of sirens, and the top half of the South Tower imploded, bringing the entire thing down. — Timothy Townsend, Rolling Stone, 11 Sep. 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