explode
verb (used without object)
to expand with force and noise because of rapid chemical change or decomposition, as gunpowder or nitroglycerine (opposed to implode).
exploded
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past participleof explode.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof explode.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
explodeverb (used without object)to expand with force and noise because of rapid chemical change or decomposition, as gunpowder or nitroglycerine (opposed to implode).
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It exploded, setting off the fire alarm and causing damage to the front door and the hallway.
From BBC ● Oct. 16, 2026
Still, they have exploded in number over the past couple years.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 10, 2026
The demand for shuttle runs exploded last month after drone attacks shut Saudi Arabia’s bypass East-West pipeline.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 5, 2026
An investigation commissioned by Gov. Gavin Newsom found the Fire Department ignored multiple warnings that the Jan. 1 Lachman fire still was smoldering days before it exploded into the Palisades fire.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 2, 2026
They lost their lives when the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded in 1986.
From "Reaching for the Moon" by Katherine Johnson
