vandalism

noun

van·​dal·​ism ˈvan-də-ˌli-zəm 

: willful or malicious destruction or defacement of public or private property

Synonyms

• defacement
• defacing
• trashing
• vandalization

Examples of vandalism in a Sentence

acts of theft and vandalism

He was arrested for vandalism.

Recent Examples on the Web

The incidents involved arson, gunfire and vandalism, including graffiti expressing grievances against those the perpetrators perceive to be racists, fascists or political opponents, the FBI said. —Alexandra Koch, Fox News, 22 Mar. 2025

Protests and even cases of vandalism have plagued Tesla dealerships across the U.S. as President Donald Trump, a staunch ally of Musk's, has vowed to prosecute those suspected of committing crimes. —Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 21 Mar. 2025

Cybertruck owners have complained online of everything from rude gestures to harassment and vandalism. —Cj Haddad,lora Kolodny, CNBC, 20 Mar. 2025

With plummeting stocks, recalls and vandalism on his plate at Tesla, Elon Musk is not laughing. —Glenn Garner, Deadline, 20 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

vandal + -ism

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

vandalism

noun

van·​dal·​ism ˈvan-dᵊl-ˌiz-əm 

: intentional destruction or damage to property

Legal Definition

vandalism

noun

van·​dal·​ism ˈvand-ᵊl-ˌi-zəm 

: the willful or malicious destruction or defacement of property

insurance covering property damage from vandalism and malicious mischief