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vandalism

noun

van·​dal·​ism ˈvan-də-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce vandalism (audio)
Synonyms of vandalismnext
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The vandalism occurred after Philadelphia’s 24-15 home loss to the Chicago Bears on Friday. Zach Berman, New York Times, 2 Dec. 2025 The deal demonstrates the operational shift by international oil companies (IOC) into Nigeria’s offshore industry, turning away from onshore assets following a wave of theft and vandalism along oil pipelines. Alexander Onukwue, semafor.com, 1 Dec. 2025 The dull silver, which has been funded by USC, shields them from potential vandalism from UCLA students, and the Trojan Knights’ watchful eyes are ready to deter any Bruin antics. Haley Sawyer, Oc Register, 28 Nov. 2025 Lopez said in the statement to the community that more coordination seems to be required to remove vandalism on UC Berkeley property. Sierra Lopez, Mercury News, 26 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for vandalism

Word History

Etymology

vandal + -ism

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vandalism was in 1798

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vandalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vandalism. Accessed 7 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

vandalism

noun
van·​dal·​ism ˈvan-dᵊl-ˌiz-əm How to pronounce vandalism (audio)
: intentional destruction or damage to property

Legal Definition

vandalism

noun
van·​dal·​ism ˈvand-ᵊl-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce vandalism (audio)
: the willful or malicious destruction or defacement of property
insurance covering property damage from vandalism and malicious mischief

More from Merriam-Webster on vandalism

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