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

After a string of high-tension, high-stakes episodes — will the deck team implode? —Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 25 Nov. 2025

But on third-and-15 from their own 6-yard line the Bears imploded again. —Jeff Faraudo, Mercury News, 23 Nov. 2025

In the country’s agricultural heartland, the balance sheets of these farmers imploded while the wealth of the railroad bosses soared. —David McWilliams, Fortune, 16 Nov. 2025

Their company collapsed, their finances imploded, and Colin disintegrated. —Isabella Wandermurem, Time, 14 Nov. 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