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

Typologies can sometimes help one grasp how such regimes sustain themselves or implode or are overthrown. —Stephen Kotkin, Foreign Affairs, 16 Dec. 2025

But many others have imploded, costing investors who rushed in during the initial boom dearly. —Matt Egan, CNN Money, 15 Dec. 2025

Max is desperately trying to keep his family’s farm from imploding, especially as cheery newcomer Betty helps her uncle open a new one next door. —Clare Mulroy, USA Today, 13 Dec. 2025

The salsa orchestra, led by percussionist Rafael Cortijio, nearly imploded when renowned lead singer Ismael Rivera was arrested for drug possession in 1962. —Isabella Gomez Sarmiento, NPR, 7 Dec. 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