Reconstruct

/ˌriːkənˈstrʌkt/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to build or form (something) again after it has been damaged or destroyed.
After the earthquake, the community worked together to reconstruct their homes.
to make a new version of something by combining different elements from various sources.
The historian was able to reconstruct the events of the past using old documents and eyewitness accounts.
to create a representation or model of something based on incomplete data.
The archaeologists aimed to reconstruct the ancient city from the ruins they found.

Etymology

From the Latin 'reconstruere', from 're-' meaning 'again' and 'struere' meaning 'to build'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

reconstruct the past
To piece together historical events or memories.
reconstruct a theory
To reformulate a theoretical framework based on new evidence.
reconstruct an argument
To reformulate arguments or reasoning processes.

Related Words

rebuilding
The process of constructing something again after it has been damaged.
restoration
The action of returning something to a former owner, place, or condition.
renovation
The process of improving a broken, damaged, or outdated structure.

Slang Meanings

To fix or improve something that is broken or not functioning well.
We're going to reconstruct that old car into something awesome.
To piece together a story or experience from scattered details.
After talking to everyone, I had to reconstruct the whole crazy night.