vandalism

noun

van·​dal·​ism ˈvan-də-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce vandalism (audio)
: 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.
Over the years, Pompeii and other sites across Italy have experienced increasingly aggressive vandalism, from the casual and careless discarding of trash to the more aggressive defacement of ancient sites. Erica Firpo, AFAR Media, 31 Dec. 2024 In a statement on Facebook, the bureau characterized the act as vandalism. Dennis Romero, NBC News, 30 Dec. 2024 Lemonade Homeowners Insurance Learn More Cost Starts at $25/month; can vary by state, age of the home and other factors Maximum coverage Not disclosed App available Yes Policy highlights Policy covers your home and property for damages caused by wildfires, extreme weather, crime, and vandalism. Liz Knueven, CNBC, 28 Dec. 2024 Additionally, one staff member mentioned an incident of vandalism in the staff housing, raising concerns about potential crime in the village. Arlyssa D. Becenti, The Arizona Republic, 12 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near vandalism

Cite this Entry

“Vandalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vandalism. Accessed 22 Jan. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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