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.
As an artist and global figure, J. Balvin aims to deconstruct stereotypes about the country by emphasizing peace, empowerment, and progress and showcasing Colombian ingenuity and industriousness. Cat Sposato, AFAR Media, 18 Mar. 2025 Jeans and skirts were embellished with long straps and undone belts and styled with plaid shirts and deconstructed athleisure jackets. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 4 Mar. 2025 This new exhibition opening in Berlin highlights her self-portraits, surrealist collages and sculptural works, showing how Sassen deconstructs and reconstructs the human body as part of her artwork. Nadja Sayej, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025 These pieces are a subversive play on masculinity, creating a blank canvas for the body’s identity to be deconstructed and reconstructed all at once. Essence, 8 Feb. 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 29 Mar. 2025.

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