to expand with force and noise because of rapid chemical change or decomposition, as gunpowder or nitroglycerine ( opposed to implode ).

to burst, fly into pieces, or break up violently with a loud report, as a boiler from excessive pressure of steam.

to burst forth violently or emotionally, esp. with noise, laughter, violent speech, etc.

He exploded with rage when contradicted.

Phonetics . (of plosives) to terminate the occlusive phase with a plosion. Compare implode ( def. 2 ) .

Golf . to play an explosion shot on a golf ball.

to cause (gunpowder, a boiler, etc.) to explode.

to cause to be rejected; destroy the repute of; discredit or disprove

to explode a theory.

Phonetics . to end with plosion.

Golf . to play an explosion shot on (a golf ball).

Obsolete . to drive (a player, play, etc.) from the stage by loud expressions of disapprobation.