explode
18 synonyms and 1 antonyms for explode, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To burst apart suddenly and violently, often with a loud noise.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use explode
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin explodere, "to drive off the stage by clapping" — originally a theatre term for booing a bad actor off, later shifting to mean "burst violently" by the 1880s.
Full origin of explode →Frequently asked questions
What does “explode” mean?
The word “explode” means to burst apart suddenly and violently, often with a loud noise. In plain terms, to burst violently, to suddenly lose your temper, or to increase very rapidly.
How do you pronounce “explode”?
“Explode” is pronounced ihk-SPLOHD (/ɪkˈsploʊd/ in IPA).
How do you use “explode” in a sentence?
Here is “explode” used in a sentence: “The old boiler exploded, shattering windows nearby.”
What is another word for “explode”?
Words with a similar meaning to “explode” include asplode, blast, blow, blow up, burst and detonate.
What is the opposite of “explode”?
The opposite of “explode” — its antonyms — is implode.
What part of speech is “explode”?
“Explode” is a verb.
Where does the word “explode” come from?
The word “explode” dates back to around 1880 and comes from Latin. From Latin explodere, "to drive off the stage by clapping" — originally a theatre term for booing a bad actor off, later shifting to mean "burst violently" by the 1880s.
Is “explode” a common word?
“Explode” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between explode and detonate?
Explode is the general term for bursting apart suddenly and violently, often with a loud noise, and can happen accidentally or naturally. Detonate specifically refers to triggering an explosive device, usually deliberately, and is a more technical term.
Can explode describe emotions rather than physical bursts?
Yes, explode is commonly used figuratively to describe suddenly expressing strong emotion, especially anger, as in "he exploded with rage." This meaning extends the physical sense of bursting violently to an emotional outburst.
How is explode used to describe growth or increase?
Explode can describe something increasing suddenly and dramatically, such as "sales exploded" or "the population exploded," meaning rapid and significant growth rather than a literal blast.