ex·plode
(ĭk-splōd́)
[Latin explōdere, to drive out by clapping, ex-, ex-, + plaudere, to clap.]
verb: -plod·ed, -plod·ing, -plodes.
intransitive verb
- To release mechanical, chemical, or nuclear energy by the sudden production of gases in a confined space: The bomb exploded.
- To burst violently as a result of internal pressure.
- To shatter with a loud noise: The vase exploded into tiny pieces when it hit the floor.
- To make an emotional outburst: My neighbor exploded in rage at the trespassers.
- To increase suddenly, sharply, and without control: The population level in this area has exploded during the past 12 years.
- To change state or appearance suddenly: Over the weekend the trees exploded with color.
- Sports To hit a golf ball out of a sand trap with a shot that scatters the sand.
transitive verb
- To cause to release energy or burst violently and noisily: The children exploded three firecrackers.
- To show to be false or unreliable: explode a hypothesis.
- Sports To hit (a golf ball) out of a sand trap with an explosive shot.
derivatives
- ex·plod́er
- noun
