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

So much of this show has been about deconstructing WandaVision and weighing its fallout that a big final-act reversion to WandaVision’s TV parodies seems natural and fitting. — Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 11 Nov. 2026

It was deconstructed and moved to its current location in 1921. — CBS News, 6 Nov. 2026

The creamy dress included deconstructed, frayed elements at the hemline and at the end of the sleeves. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 3 Nov. 2026

The apartment will occasionally deconstruct, its walls pulled apart to make way for a bar, or Wiesler’s own drab home — some of the set segues almost defying logic. — Demetrios Matheou, HollywoodReporter, 2 Nov. 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