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

Mickey is a private investigator with a knack for solving cases and a former LAPD cop whose life imploded three years ago. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 10 Aug. 2026

While there was a period of harmony between the two coasts, that imploded after Shakur was ambushed at a Times Square recording studio in November 1994. — Cheyenne Roundtree, Rolling Stone, 9 Aug. 2026

That then reversed in July as chip stocks imploded with the group seen as too overheated by some. — Alex Harring,sean Conlon,sarah Min, CNBC, 4 Aug. 2026

There have been surprisingly few disasters—just six companies, about 2%, imploded or shut down. — Richard Nieva, Forbes.com, 28 July 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