1. to remove mythical or legendary elements from a story, belief, or historical account in order to reveal the underlying truth or reality
Usage: British spelling; American equivalent is 'demythologize'; often used in religious, literary, and historical contexts
2. to interpret religious texts or doctrines by removing supernatural or mythological language to extract their rational or existential meaning
Usage: theological and academic usage; associated with biblical criticism and modern theology

Examples

• Scholars have attempted to demythologise the legend of King Arthur by examining historical records.
• The historian worked to demythologise popular misconceptions about the American frontier.
• Modern theologians demythologise biblical narratives to understand their spiritual significance.
• We need to demythologise the idea that successful entrepreneurs never fail.
• The documentary demythologises the romantic image of piracy in the Golden Age.
• Critics demythologised the founding fathers by revealing their personal flaws and contradictions.