Synonyms of explode

explode

verb

ik-ˈsplōd 

1

as in to detonate

to break open or into pieces usually because of internal pressure

the building was wrecked when a powerful bomb exploded

Synonyms & Similar Words

• detonate
• blow
• pop
• burst
• go off
• blow up
• shatter
• crump
• smash
• fragment
• fire
• splinter
• shoot
• discharge
• balloon
• mushroom
• burgeon

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• implode
• collapse
• fizzle

2

as in to shatter

to cause to break open or into pieces by or as if by an explosive

the bomb was so powerful that it exploded windows in several neighboring buildings

Synonyms & Similar Words

• shatter
• smash
• demolish
• blow
• burst
• destroy
• pop
• blast
• detonate
• blow up
• annihilate
• dynamite
• ruin
• wreck
• decimate
• fragment
• discharge
• splinter

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• collapse
• implode

3

as in to erupt

to develop suddenly and violently

the mayor's latest unpopular decision caused long-suppressed resentment to explode into open anger

Synonyms & Similar Words

• erupt
• burst (forth)
• break out
• flare (up)
• flame
• swell
• blaze (up)
• skyrocket
• detonate
• rocket
• proliferate
• mount
• multiply
• snowball
• wax
• mushroom
• balloon
• touch off
• blow up
• burgeon

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of explode

The river is a dark brown snake in the distance, with patterns and colors exploding on either side. — Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2026

In Florida, where homeowners are increasingly finding floodwaters at their door, the market for these kinds of products — both off the shelf at a home improvement store and custom-built — has exploded. — Alex Harris, Miami Herald, 16 Oct. 2026

The company is also recovering from a setback in May, when one of its New Glenn rockets exploded on the launchpad. — Annie Palmer, CNBC, 16 Oct. 2026

Unlike previous Ship splashdowns, though, which have exploded after tipping over into the water, Ship 40 remained largely intact and afloat. — Josh Dinner, Space.com, 14 Oct. 2026