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 France's political landscape has been deeply fragmented ever since its mainstream right and left parties imploded several years ago. Emma Bowman, NPR, 15 June 2024 After the Mets’ bullpen imploded a night before, the stable held it down this time around. James O'Connell, Hartford Courant, 19 May 2024 Like Ukraine, Georgia gained its independence after the Soviet Union imploded in 1991. Laura King, Los Angeles Times, 28 May 2024 The anti-immigrant American Party, or Know-Nothing ticket, did flourish in the 1850s before imploding over the issue of slavery. Matthew Smith, The Conversation, 21 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for implode 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'implode.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near implode

Cite this Entry

“Implode.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/implode. Accessed 27 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

implode

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

More from Merriam-Webster on implode

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