implosive

[ im-ploh-siv ]

adjective

1. characterized by a partial vacuum behind the point of closure.

noun

1. an implosive stop.

implosive

/ ɪmˈpləʊsɪv /

adjective

1. pronounced by or with implosion

noun

1. an implosive consonant

Derived Forms

• imˈplosively, adverb

Other Words From

• im·plosive·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of implosive¹

First recorded in 1875–80; im- ¹ + (ex)plosive

Example Sentences

After a very explosive character like Rooster, I will be more interested in an implosive character like Cromwell in “Wolf Hall” or Abel in “Bridge of Spies.”

From New York Times

And that's a pretty good outcome, considering the other implosive possibilities here.

From Washington Post

In the implosive “Wine Star,” of 1959, some kind of geological event, epic or minuscule, is witnessed from above.

From New York Times

But as befits a moment when the old-school givens of gender relations are being probed and overturned in Western culture, a host of erotically implosive men are allowing top-drawer actors here to embody lost souls who lead with their loins.

From New York Times

This Australian maverick loves to steer celebrated stars out of their comfort zones in implosive, bare-knuckled productions that strip the poetry from lyrical plays.

From New York Times