Meaning & use

explode

verb·Everyday

To burst suddenly and violently with a loud noise, releasing energy, gas, or fragments.

See it in a sentence

The old boiler exploded, shattering windows in the building next door.

Sales exploded after the product was featured on a popular television show.

A note on using this word

Explode is often used figuratively for sudden, rapid growth or an outburst of emotion, not just physical blasts.

Words with a similar meaning

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Words with an opposite meaning

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