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explode
This word conveys a sudden, violent release of energy, whether physical, emotional, or numerical. It suggests a threshold being crossed where containment is no longer possible, resulting in a rapid expansion or a loud rupture. In a physical sense, it implies destruction and chaos, while in a social or demographic sense, it implies an overwhelming surge of growth.
When used to describe emotions, it captures the transition from suppressed tension to an uncontrolled outburst. In an intellectual context, it functions as a tool for debunking, where a theory is shattered by evidence in the same way a physical object is shattered by pressure.
Meanings
To burst or shatter violently and noisily as a result of internal pressure or a chemical reaction.
The old boiler suddenly exploded, sending debris across the room.
To cause a bomb or other explosive device to burst violently.
The engineers had to explode the rock face to clear a path for the road.
To increase suddenly and rapidly in size, number, or intensity.
The population of the city exploded after the industrial boom of the 1920s.
Phrasal Verbs
explode into
to suddenly begin to experience a strong emotion or state
The children exploded into laughter when the clown tripped.
explode out of
to burst violently from within a contained space
The pressurized gas exploded out of the valve with a deafening roar.