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
• anatomize
• assay
• break down
• cut
• dissect

Examples of deconstruct in a Sentence

deconstructing the economic theories of John Maynard Keynes

Recent Examples on the Web

El Museo del Taco, a three-story building on the iconic Avenida Revolución in Tijuana, deconstructs a taco into nine interactive rooms where visitors can learn everything from how to light the charcoal for the carne asada to how to make corn tortillas. —Alexandra Mendoza, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 May 2024

New Destiny Church ‘Genesis 2.0’ Third-year theater major Lucy Huckle plays seven roles in this world-premiere, one-person satire that deconstructs the Garden of Eden scenario. —David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined at sense 1