vandalism

noun

van·​dal·​ism ˈvan-də-ˌli-zəm 

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

Synonyms of vandalism

• vandalization
• destruction
• defacement

Examples of vandalism in a Sentence

acts of theft and vandalism

He was arrested for vandalism.

Recent Examples on the Web

Some potential charges include incitement to riot, vandalism, theft and assault. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2026

Depending on the circumstances, charges could include incitement to riot, vandalism, theft, assault, reckless driving, unlawful assembly, conspiracy and other offenses, police said. — Sydney Barragan, Oc Register, 9 July 2026

Since the vandalism incident, Doan said, conspiracy theories have been abundant in the community. — Ryan MacAsero, Mercury News, 8 July 2026

Bay Staters answered a brutal heat wave and a shameful act of late-night vandalism with pure grit to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. — Lance Reynolds, Boston Herald, 4 July 2026

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