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 wear and tear of the season usually causes Rockies relievers to implode in August and September. —Patrick Saunders, Denver Post, 26 Apr. 2026

Marty’s lavish wedding — staged in what appears to be the Bellagio courtyard — then implodes when FBI agents storm in and arrest his bride for international fraud. —Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 24 Apr. 2026

To that vision, the conference wisely added football in an effort to keep long-time members, but this effort failed and the league imploded. —Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 21 Apr. 2026

Swalwell’s downfall was particularly swift; his 16-year political career imploded over a single weekend. —Robert Abitbol, USA Today, 18 Apr. 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