deconstruct

verb

de·​con·​struct ˌdē-kən-ˈstrəkt How to pronounce deconstruct (audio)
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 rightWayne 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 classicsVogue
4
: destroy, demolish
nations that are deconstructing themselvesJim Hoagland
deconstructive adjective
deconstructor noun

Examples of deconstruct in a Sentence

deconstructing the economic theories of John Maynard Keynes
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In deconstructing a genre, Shackleton by extension deconstructs his own film. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 27 Jan. 2025 Designers like Sacai, Amiri and Ami showcased unique approaches to deconstructing the traditional suit, incorporating individuality through thoughtful layering and styling. Rhonda Richford, WWD, 27 Jan. 2025 Your film deconstructs the beauty myth or the Cinderella myth. Scott Roxborough, The Hollywood Reporter, 26 Jan. 2025 Questlove deconstructs how it was built on top of a Motown beat, with those blaring acid horns, that chorus of voices sounding like a barbershop quartet hovering in space then singing in startling unison, the whole song finding its meaning in the thumping sonic drive that somehow remained…light. Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 24 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for deconstruct 

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of deconstruct was in 1973

Dictionary Entries Near deconstruct

Cite this Entry

“Deconstruct.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deconstruct. Accessed 6 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on deconstruct

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