malicious mischief

American  

noun

1. willful destruction of personal property motivated by ill will or resentment toward its owner or possessor.

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Etymology

Origin of malicious mischief

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

malicious mischief

Resources that should be devoted to ensuring the smooth execution of November’s balloting are instead being diverted to respond to malicious mischief.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 16, 2022

Officers arrested a 15-year-old Washougal boy and an 18-year-old man, also from Washougal, on suspicion of commercial burglary, theft and malicious mischief, according to the Camas Police Department.

From Seattle Times ● Dec. 29, 2021

The police have also accused Sherman of malicious mischief because, they said, he damaged the door of the home.

From New York Times ● Jul. 14, 2021

Both men also face charges of malicious mischief.

From Washington Times ● Jul. 13, 2015

For the look he saw on her face was one of pure malicious mischief.

From Daughter of the Sun A Tale of Adventure by Gregory, Jackson