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ex·plode

explode

 
 
pronunciation:
ihk splod
parts of speech:
intransitive verb, transitive verb
features:
Word Combinations (verb), Word History, Word Explorer
part of speech: intransitive verb
inflections: explodes, exploding, exploded
definition 1: to release energy forcefully with noise, heat, and the violent expansion of gases, because of rapid chemical change or sudden violent impact.
The bomb exploded, killing several people.
similar words:
blaze, blow up, crash
definition 2: to burst because of excessive internal pressure.
The balloon exploded with a loud bang.After days of sending out smoke, the volcano exploded.
similar words:
burst
definition 3: to burst with sudden emotion.
He exploded into angry curses.The child exploded into tears.
similar words:
blaze, blow up, burst, rage
definition 4: to expand or increase suddenly, sharply, and usu. unexpectedly.
The population of rats has exploded in some cities.
definition 5: to burst forth.
Gas and ash exploded from the volcano.
 
part of speech: transitive verb
definition 1: to cause to release energy or to burst violently.
He threatened to explode the bomb he was carrying.
similar words:
burst
definition 2: to destroy the credibility of, as though blowing to bits.
This popular belief has been exploded by scientists.
antonyms:
confirm
similar words:
blow up
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derivation: exploder (n.)
Word History
Explode comes from a Latin word that means "to drive off the stage by clapping," the Roman version of booing. In English, "explode" first had the meaning "to drive away with a loud noise." During the 1700s it came to be used for something that goes off with a loud noise, such as a bomb.
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