1A physical explosion — gas, explosives, or a volcano suddenly bursting with a loud noise, shock, and destruction.
工場でガス爆発が起き、周辺の建物が壊れた。
A gas explosion occurred at the factory, damaging nearby buildings.
火山が爆発し、大量の灰が空へ舞い上がった。
The volcano erupted, sending huge amounts of ash into the sky.
実験中に薬品が爆発する事故が起きた。
An accident occurred in which a chemical exploded during the experiment.
2Emotions such as anger or frustration suddenly bursting out; figuratively also used for a sudden surge, e.g. in popularity.
彼はついに怒りが爆発し、部屋を飛び出した。
He finally exploded with anger and stormed out of the room.
長年のストレスが爆発して涙が止まらなかった。
Years of stress finally exploded, and I couldn't stop crying.
その歌手は突然人気が爆発し、一躍スターになった。
That singer's popularity suddenly exploded, making them an overnight star.