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

… a project to deconstruct 5,000 Katrina-damaged homes … and replace them …

—Alex Davidson

deconstructive

ˌdē-kən-ˈstrək-tiv 

adjective

deconstructor

ˌdē-kən-ˈstrək-tər 

noun

Synonyms of deconstruct

• analyze
• dissect
• examine
• assess

Examples of deconstruct in a Sentence

deconstructing the economic theories of John Maynard Keynes

Recent Examples on the Web

Inspired by falafel but deconstructed, these hearty pitas are filled with roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas, then topped with a spicy jalapeño yogurt sauce. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 23 July 2026

The show organizers are constructing and deconstructing a stage on top of the pitch. — Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 19 July 2026

Dominguez deconstructed two off-the-rack gowns and transformed them into their own singular pieces. — Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 17 July 2026

How to Make Tzatziki Cucumbers Shea bills this toss-together starter, side dish, or light lunch as deconstructed tzatziki. — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for deconstruct

• aqueduct
• reconstruct
• abduct
• conduct
• construct
• deduct
• destruct
• induct
• instruct
• obstruct
• bucked
• chucked