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

Hate crimes are down 35% in the 90th Precinct where the vandalism occurred, with 13 incidents this year compared to 20 during the same period in 2025, NYPD stats current as of Sunday show. — Colin Mixson, New York Daily News, 3 Nov. 2026

But the president continues to repeat false claims that vandalism — rather than shoddy workmanship — was to blame for a new blue surface peeling away. — Michelle L. Price, Chicago Tribune, 2 Nov. 2026

Hawa, who also goes by Dawn Benitez, was charged with vandalism of property in a national park. — Tom Dougherty, CBS News, 2 Nov. 2026

The new indictment comes nearly five months after eight pro-Palestinian activists were charged with conspiracy for threats and vandalism at officials’ homes, some businesses and the Jewish Federation of Detroit. — Ed White, Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 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