implode

verb

im·​plode im-ˈplōd How to pronounce implode (audio)
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 factionalismJan Hoffman

transitive verb

: to cause to implode

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
None of Hellebuyck’s regular-season track record, his award recognition, or Arniel’s impassioned speech about the team imploding in front of him is a result. Murat Ates, New York Times, 3 May 2025 But in 2022, the company imploded, with billions of dollars in customer funds reportedly missing and investigations underway by federal agencies. Joe Otterson, Variety, 2 May 2025 Their high-leverage relievers also imploded, including Héctor Neris, who was eventually released on Aug. 20. Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 25 Apr. 2025 On a Sunday where both Scheffler and Fleetwood shot average rounds of 70 and 54-hole leader Si Woo Kim imploded into a 3-over 74, Thomas played some of his best and smartest golf. Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for implode

Word History

Etymology

in- entry 2 + -plode (as in explode)

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of implode was in 1881

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Implode.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/implode. Accessed 11 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

implode

verb
im·​plode im-ˈplōd How to pronounce implode (audio)
imploded; imploding
: to burst inward

More from Merriam-Webster on implode

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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