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

But while their forebears deconstructed rock conventions, HYPER GAL’s primary influence is the glistening textures of pop. —Jude Noel, Pitchfork, 14 Apr. 2026

In keeping it simple and reflecting on his old hits through the portal where he was discovered, the persona of Justin Bieber was reassessed and deconstructed in real time after years of mythos and controversy. —Reanna Cruz, Vulture, 13 Apr. 2026

The tortoiseshell palette is deconstructed in this look, which features a blend of full torties, chocolate brown tips, and barley there caramel auras. —Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 13 Apr. 2026

Biological molecules were deconstructed and flattened into a tangled mess of mostly carbon and hydrogen. —Jeffrey Marlow, New Yorker, 5 Apr. 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