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

• 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

Assuming the sport doesn’t implode when the collective bargaining agreement expires at the end of 2026, of course. —John Cassillo, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2025

And when those mortgage bets imploded, so did the global economy in 2008. —Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 18 Aug. 2025

Then, with Chapman unavailable on Sunday, middle relievers Greg Weissert and Steven Matz imploded in the ninth inning, turning a 3-2 lead into a 5-3 loss. —Jackson Roberts, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Aug. 2025

Some investors were paid back in part, but most were not, leaving a huge debt after Sky Group imploded during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. —Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 14 Aug. 2025

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