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.
The asterisk to those achievements is that qualification for Europe’s top competition was achieved in a season when the traditional challengers, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur’s form, have fallen off a cliff as dominant force Manchester City imploded. Zak Garner-Purkis, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025 Some investors were paid back in part, but most were not, leaving a huge debt after Sky Group imploded during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 27 May 2025 The submersible imploded about 1 hour and 45 minutes after its trip began, resulting in the deaths of its five passengers. Greta Cross, USA Today, 24 May 2025 That could implode political support for Republicans and would probably destroy any chance of Republicans maintaining their congressional majorities. Phil Mattingly, CNN Money, 22 May 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 3 Jun. 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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