explode Definition

explode
verb exploded, exploding

intr
1. Said of a substance: to undergo an explosion.

Thesaurus: burst, erupt, rupture, shatter, blow up, detonate.
2. To cause something to undergo an explosion.
intr
3. To undergo a violent explosion as a result of a chemical or nuclear reaction.
intr
4. To suddenly show a strong or violent emotion, especially anger.
5. To disprove (a theory, etc) with vigour.
intr
6. Said especially of population: to increase rapidly.

Etymology: 17c; 16c in obsolete sense ‘to reject scornfully': from Latin explodere to force off stage by clapping, from plaudere to clap the hands.