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

Built in 1988, the shopping center has seen a growing number of vacancies and damage from vandalism after its anchor grocery store, Dillon’s, left in 2008. — Taylor O'Connor 31, Kansas City Star, 31 July 2026

The arrest comes nearly a week after police sought help from the public in identifying a suspect who was caught on video recorded by the surveillance cameras and the cameras on the Teslas, which appeared to show the vandalism incident. — Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 30 July 2026

The acts of vandalism happened during the early morning hours of July 18, when someone cut down or damaged camera poles and stole two of the devices. — Spencer Wilson, CBS News, 29 July 2026

Bosnian police arrested a suspect Tuesday in connection with the overnight vandalism and arson at the Shrine of Our Lady in Medjugorje, according to Vatican News. — Emma Bussey, FOXNews.com, 28 July 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