deconstruct

verb

de·​con·​struct ˌdē-kən-ˈstrəkt 

deconstructed; deconstructing; deconstructs

transitive verb

1

: to examine (something, such as a work of literature) using the methods of deconstruction

2

: to take apart or examine (something) in order to reveal the basis or composition often with the intention of exposing biases, flaws, or inconsistencies

deconstruct the myths of both the left and the right

—Wayne Karlin

3

: to adapt or separate the elements of for use in an ironic or radically new way

uses his masterly tailoring skills to deconstruct the classics

—Vogue

4

: destroy, demolish

nations that are deconstructing themselves

—Jim Hoagland

deconstructive

ˌdē-kən-ˈstrək-tiv 

adjective

deconstructor

ˌdē-kən-ˈstrək-tər 

noun

Synonyms

• analyze
• anatomize
• assay
• break down
• cut
• dissect

Examples of deconstruct in a Sentence

deconstructing the economic theories of John Maynard Keynes

Recent Examples on the Web

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will not, therefore, be inspiring op-eds and essays deconstructing its meaning or emotional weight. —Mark Hughes, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

Gamers Nexus has released a video deconstructing NZXT’s defense of its Flex gaming PC purchase and rental program. —Wes Davis, The Verge, 8 Dec. 2024

Researchers hope that probing how DMT deconstructs and reconstructs our experiences of the world can make at least some progress on psychedelic science’s original promise of a major leap in our understanding of consciousness. —Oshan Jarow, Vox, 4 Nov. 2024

Over 150 years after its publication, Alcott’s hallmark of American literature proves surprisingly effective in deconstructing our modern ideas around gender roles which are shaping the 2024 election. —Ivelisse Rodriguez, Orlando Sentinel, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined at sense 1