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

Starting in 2010, the actor was arrested multiple times on allegations including domestic violence, grand theft, resisting arrest, battery against a peace officer and vandalism. —Kierra Frazier, CBS News, 21 Mar. 2026

Brendon’s drug and alcohol issues led to legal issues over the past 15 years, including arrests for felony domestic violence, robbery, vandalism, and resisting arrest. —Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 21 Mar. 2026

Suspected associates of the gang retaliated by setting fire to a bus and blocking roads, leading to five arrests for acts of vandalism. —ABC News, 20 Mar. 2026

Shards of broken glass after vandalism at the Chihuly Garden and Glass. —Isabel Yip, NBC news, 20 Mar. 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