vandalism
noun
van·dal·ism
ˈvan-də-ˌli-zəm 
: 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
The vandalism was discovered Sunday morning outside the Department of Public Social Services building in the Civic Center area.
—
Jasmine Mendez
follow, Los Angeles Times, 1 June 2026
Officials determined that the vandalism didn’t disrupt voting.
—Andrea Klick, Daily News, 1 June 2026
Most were for assault of police officers while other allegations include theft, vandalism and disturbing the public order.
—ABC News, 31 May 2026
Police are investigating the incidents as acts of vandalism and are asking for the public’s help in identifying the people involved.
—Jason Green, Mercury News, 30 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for vandalism
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Jasmine Mendez
follow, Los Angeles Times, 1 June 2026
Officials determined that the vandalism didn’t disrupt voting.
—Andrea Klick, Daily News, 1 June 2026
Most were for assault of police officers while other allegations include theft, vandalism and disturbing the public order.
—ABC News, 31 May 2026
Police are investigating the incidents as acts of vandalism and are asking for the public’s help in identifying the people involved.
—Jason Green, Mercury News, 30 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for vandalism
Cite this Entry
“Vandalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vandalism. Accessed 4 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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