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
• dissect
• examine
• assess

Examples of deconstruct in a Sentence

deconstructing the economic theories of John Maynard Keynes

Recent Examples on the Web

At the end — Sept 1, at least in the Nevada desert — the city gets deconstructed and wiped from the face of the planet. —Gina Park, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2025

In recent years, many hotels have embraced deconstructed bathroom designs in an effort to create the illusion of more space. —Bailey Berg, AFAR Media, 22 Aug. 2025

Johnson, a romantic heroine who always seems to be silently deconstructing the idea of romance, is poised enough to emerge unscathed. —Justin Chang, New Yorker, 22 Aug. 2025

Themes include the exploration of these issues, battles for justice, finding strength, deconstructing limiting beliefs, and seeking a better future, presented through drama, documentary, and horror. —Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 22 Aug. 2025

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