malicious mischief

American  

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of malicious mischief

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

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

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

Court records do not yet indicate which attorney is representing Mohamed in the malicious mischief case.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 20, 2021

Both men also face charges of malicious mischief.

From Washington Times • Jul. 13, 2015

Behind the substantial counter which was an impregnable fortification, was his popular son, Master Joseph; a short, ill-favoured cur, with a spirit of vulgar oppression and malicious mischief stamped on his visage.

From Sybil, or the Two Nations by Disraeli, Benjamin, Earl of Beaconsfield