vandalism

noun

van·dal·ism | \ˈvan-də-ˌli-zəm

Definition of vandalism

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

Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More about vandalism

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Examples of vandalism in a Sentence

acts of theft and vandalism He was arrested for vandalism.

Recent Examples on the Web

Students in any district could be disciplined if the walkout becomes a disruption, and police could become involved if any criminal activity takes place, such as vandalism or destruction of property. — Emma Kate Fittes, Indianapolis Star, "What students (and parents) should know before the National School Walkout March 14," 13 Mar. 2018 Hiram suggests the Serpents should be blamed for this act of vandalism. — Amy Mackelden, Harper's BAZAAR, "A War Is About to Break Out in Riverdale," 25 Jan. 2018 Under Promise, students who commit petty vandalism or theft, harassment, fight or other minor crimes or violations are referred to the off-campus program for two to 10 days. — Nicole Darrah, Fox News, "Parkland shooting suspect's mom let him buy gun despite mental health counselors' pushback, official says," 10 July 2018 Under Promise, students who commit petty vandalism or theft, harassment, fight or other minor crimes or violations are referred to the off-campus program for two-to-10 days. — Terry Spencer, The Seattle Times, "Official: Florida shooting suspect’s mom let him buy gun," 10 July 2018 The board of directors is to meet Tuesday at 7 p.m. in Lincoln Center to discuss a possible youth curfew to curb the widespread thefts and vandalism. — Jesse Leavenworth, Courant Community, "Manchester Dem Chief Says GOP Official's Facebook Comment Racist; Calls For His Resignation," 9 July 2018 How nets are lost can vary dramatically in the same region, and depends on weather, sea conditions, vandalism or theft, or whether the fishery is operating illegally. — National Geographic, "These Communities Turn Discarded Fishing Nets Into Carpets," 13 June 2018 Kubica was booked into Sacramento County Jail on suspicion of vehicle theft and vandalism, both felonies, as well as a possession of narcotic paraphernalia in connection with the incident Tuesday. — Benjy Egel, sacbee, "Man arrested after stealing, crashing district vehicle outside Natomas High School | The Sacramento Bee," 24 May 2018 In addition, although unfortunate, vandalism and theft can take place in unoccupied houses. — Kenya Burrell-vanwormer, Houston Chronicle, "Realtor View: Final walk-through of home a must before you sign on dotted line," 6 Apr. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'vandalism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.