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.
But, unlike the Citizens’ many collapses this season, his side did not implode. Zak Garner-Purkis, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025 City, imperious under Pep Guardiola for so long, imploded in the autumn and on Christmas Day, sat seventh. Chris Weatherspoon, The Athletic, 19 Mar. 2025 The attraction was imploded to make space for new rides coming in 2026. Lilit Marcus, CNN, 13 Mar. 2025 Most of the action went down in the pods, where two overlapping love triangles ultimately imploded, leaving four of the most interesting cast members unengaged and thus mostly absent in the second half of the season. Judy Berman, TIME, 10 Mar. 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 5 Apr. 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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