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 Fowlers moved forward with their ambitious plan for the property during the pandemic, when construction costs exploded. — Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026

The series’ popularity continued to explode after the Bug Films anime adaptation and is seen through the enthusiasm of fans offline and online. — Kalai Chik, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Celsius markets its energy drinks to athletes and health-conscious consumers and has exploded in popularity in recent years. — Robert Frank, CNBC, 7 Aug. 2026

But a little more than a minute after launch, the shuttle exploded, sending jagged plumes across the sky creating an image that would be seared into collective memory. — Tracy Grant, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Aug. 2026