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

Terra/Luna imploded in May 2022—erasing more than $40 billion from the Terra ecosystem in 72 hours, wiping out retail investors worldwide. —Clara Molot, Vanity Fair, 17 Mar. 2026

Slumming with her sister in San Francisco after her life with her Madoff-like ex in New York implodes, Jasmine Francis isn't quite willing to let go of the affectations that come with living in high society. —Darren Franich, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Mar. 2026

Ludvig Aberg, who had a three-shot lead going into the final round, imploded on the back nine with shots into the water on consecutive holes. —ABC News, 15 Mar. 2026

What happens when the restaurant widely believed to be the best in the world implodes? —Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 Mar. 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