implode

verb

im·​plode im-ˈplōd How to pronounce implode (audio)
imploded; imploding
Synonyms of implodenext

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

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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.
But before the building could be completed, HFZ imploded — Feldman had a spectacular falling out with his former partner, Nir Meir, who was later arrested and charged with an $86 million fraud scheme involving the XI. — Kim Velsey, Curbed, 21 Oct. 2026 His former employer, Hot 97, which appears to be imploding after multiple radio personalities were let go, leading to current staffers criticizing the station’s management on air. — Kyle Eustice, VIBE.com, 21 Oct. 2026 The stellar core implodes into the black hole, and a GRB fueled by a vast amount of material from all around it is born. — Robin George Andrews, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026 Folger is one of thousands of hopefuls aiming to beat the odds as Hollywood implodes. — Meredith Maran, Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2026 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

Rhymes for implode

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Browse Nearby Words

impliedly
implode
imploration
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Cite this Entry

“Implode.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/implode. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

implode

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