The meaning of EXPLODE is to burst forth with sudden violence or noise from internal energy. How to use explode in a sentence. Did you know?

EXPLODE definition: 1. to break up into pieces violently, or to cause something to do this: 2. to react suddenly with…. Learn more.

Explode definition: to expand with force and noise because of rapid chemical change or decomposition, as gunpowder or nitroglycerine (implode ).. See examples of EXPLODE used in a sentence.

1. to expand with force and noise through rapid chemical change or decomposition, as gunpowder or nitroglycerine (opposed to implode). 2. to burst violently, as a boiler from excessive pressure of …

If something such as a bomb explodes, it bursts (= breaks suddenly from inside) with noise and force, and if you explode it, you make it burst with noise and force:

15 hours ago · There was a Hayward, California explosion today. 6 were injured after dramatic video shows a building explode, causing a massive fire.

Nov 16, 2025 · In English it used to mean to "drive out with violence and sudden noise" (from around 1660), and later meaning to "go off with a loud noise" (from around 1790). The sense of "bursting …

There are 23 meanings listed in OED's entry for the verb explode, six of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

If an object such as a bomb explodes or if someone or something explodes it, it bursts loudly and with great force, often causing damage or injury. They were clearing up when the second bomb exploded. …

to erupt energetically; to move or act suddenly and quickly with force: [no object] to explode in laughter. to show to be wrong; discredit; disprove:[~ + object] The new findings about the solar system …