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vandalism
noun
van·dal·ism
ˈvan-də-ˌli-zəm
: 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
California Zip ties, guns and a rope: New details emerge on Newport Beach home invasion
April 19, 2024
King was charged last week with seven counts of vandalism.
—Salvador Hernandez, Los Angeles Times, 30 May 2024
The couple asked that their names and the name of their store be omitted out of fear that speaking up about the night would prompt vandalism at their business.
—Lauren J. Mapp, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 May 2024
Throughout the decade of vandalism, no injuries were reported, Lieutenant Jake Bushey of the Azusa Police Department told the San Gabriel Valley Tribune.
—Bailey Richards, Peoplemag, 26 May 2024
Some commenters took that to mean the image depicts acts of vandalism that occurred during campus protests of the Israel-Hamas war.
—Joedy McCreary, USA TODAY, 13 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for vandalism
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'vandalism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1798, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near vandalism
Cite this Entry
“Vandalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vandalism. Accessed 10 Jun. 2024.
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
More from Merriam-Webster on vandalism
Nglish: Translation of vandalism for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of vandalism for Arabic Speakers
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