vandalism

noun

van·​dal·​ism ˈvan-də-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce vandalism (audio)
: willful or malicious destruction or defacement of public or private property

Examples of vandalism in a Sentence

acts of theft and vandalism He was arrested for vandalism.
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.
The cords unlock via a user’s phone app, and retract to avoid vandalism, weather exposure, or trip hazards. IEEE Spectrum, 16 Dec. 2024 The vandalism occurred sometime between Thursday and Sunday, according to West Mercia Police. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 26 Nov. 2024 The suspects also reportedly threatened to kill police officers over the course of their vandalism spree. Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 5 Nov. 2024 Every day, Pima County wastewater workers patrol the huge empty concrete tanks and processing plants, now vulnerable to vandalism, trespassing and copper wire theft. John Leos, The Arizona Republic, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for vandalism 

Word History

Etymology

vandal + -ism

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vandalism was in 1798

Dictionary Entries Near vandalism

Cite this Entry

“Vandalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vandalism. Accessed 5 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

vandalism

noun
van·​dal·​ism ˈvan-dᵊl-ˌiz-əm How to pronounce vandalism (audio)
: intentional destruction or damage to property

Legal Definition

vandalism

noun
van·​dal·​ism ˈvand-ᵊl-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce vandalism (audio)
: the willful or malicious destruction or defacement of property
insurance covering property damage from vandalism and malicious mischief

More from Merriam-Webster on vandalism

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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