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.
Thankfully, the telescope itself had been deconstructed and moved away from the observatory to safeguard it from the perils of war. Anthony Wood, Space.com, 22 June 2025 Riffed off, deconstructed, or replicated to a tee, preppy style has provided fashion houses and labels plenty of source material to work off of in recent years, filtering it through their own lens. Christina Holevas, Vogue, 20 June 2025 The film further lifts the veil on the artist’s influence, as a variable smorgasbord of talent converges throughout to deconstruct the impact of his life, art, his curious process and disposition. Holly Jones, Variety, 9 June 2025 Joining Jensen among the most experienced and widely quoted technology analysts currently dedicated to deconstructing the FinOps space is Tracy Woo, principal analyst at Forrester. Adrian Bridgwater, Forbes.com, 6 June 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

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Cite this Entry

“Deconstruct.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deconstruct. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

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