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

Each of those dams was recently deconstructed in the largest dam removal project in United States history, which has restored the river to its natural, free-flowing state. —Alexa Robles-Gil, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Oct. 2024

Also, the man has dope style with that deconstructed cardie with full lapes. —Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 21 Oct. 2024

Already, workers have partially deconstructed the existing dam to prepare it for expansion, dumped fill material and poured concrete for the expansion. —Elise Schmelzer, The Denver Post, 17 Oct. 2024

The trench, of course, originally designed by Burberry's founder in 1879, made an appearance—sometimes deconstructed, cropped, or embellished, using light fabrics such as silk poplin and linen. —Laia Farran Graves, Forbes, 7 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined at sense 1