Meaning & use
imploded
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“imploded” is a form of “implode”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
verbintransitive
Collapsed violently inward, especially of a hollow structure or object.
Grammar: No object; often used as the past tense of 'implode' or as an adjective.
Patterns
- something imploded
The submarine imploded under the immense pressure of the deep ocean.
The old building imploded in a cloud of dust after the controlled demolition.
verbintransitivefigurative
Failed suddenly and completely, especially a system, organization, or plan.
Grammar: No object; used figuratively for abstract things.
Patterns
- something imploded
The company's finances imploded after the scandal broke.
Their marriage imploded when they stopped communicating.
Word forms
| base form | implode |
|---|---|
| third person singular | implodes |
| present participle | imploding |
| past tense | imploded |
| past participle | imploded |
Common combinations
- imploded under pressure
- The container imploded under the pressure of the vacuum.
- imploded in on itself
- The star imploded in on itself, forming a black hole.
- financially imploded
- The startup financially imploded after losing its main investor.
Synonyms and how they differ
- collapsed
- Collapsed can mean falling down or failing suddenly, but it doesn't always imply an inward burst like imploded does.
- caved in
- Caved in suggests a slower, less violent inward collapse, often of a roof or wall.
Opposites
Word family
Commonly confused: imploded or exploded?
imploded vs exploded
Exploded means burst outward, while imploded means collapsed inward. They are opposites.
Practice
The old stadium was ______ to make way for a new shopping center.
Choose one answer.
The past tense 'imploded' fits because the demolition happened in the past. 'Exploded' would mean it burst outward, which is not typical for controlled demolition. 'Imploding' is the present participle and would need a helping verb. 'Implode' is the base form and doesn't fit the past tense context.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “imploded”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.