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

Part of a building was deconstructed as the same brand of artificial turf used by the Toronto Blue Jays was brought in and rolled out. —Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 1 Aug. 2025

The chocolate fondant, deconstructed affogato, and Kenyan selection of cheeses and crackers were impossible to resist. —Jenn Rice, Travel + Leisure, 31 July 2025

In one scene, the series deconstructs how the sound of gunfire—interpreted as aggression—was actually a signal for help. —Tony Bradley, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025

This deconstructed upside down cake improved on the classic Dole Whip with a moist and crunchy chunk of cinnamony cake and even more pineapple flavor. —Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 16 July 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