explodes; exploded; exploding
1
: to suddenly break apart in a violent way with parts flying outward
The bomb could explode [=blow up, detonate] at any minute.
One of the shells failed to explode.
an exploding volcano
explode [=blow up, detonate] a bomb
2
a
: to change in a very sudden and violent way
These occasional skirmishes may soon explode into all-out war.
b
: to move with sudden speed and force
The horses exploded [=burst] out of the starting gate.
The birds suddenly exploded into flight.
We exploded [=burst] into action.
c
: to be affected by something very suddenly
The building exploded in/into flames/fire.
The audience exploded with/in/into laughter. [=everyone burst out laughing]
3
a
: to express emotion in a sudden and violent way
She looked like she was ready to explode with anger.
b
: to say (something) in a sudden and angry way
"Damn you!" she exploded.
4
: to show that (something, such as a belief or theory) is false
Science has exploded many old theories.
The book explodes a number of myths/legends about his youth.
5
: to increase very quickly
The deer population has recently exploded.
the exploding [=soaring, rising] costs of childcare
The book has exploded in popularity.
Cite this Entry
“Explode.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/explode. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
