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

Milne, who is white, also was charged with first-degree malicious mischief for causing more than $100,000 worth of property damage, charging papers say.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 18, 2023

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

Both men also face charges of malicious mischief.

From Washington Times • Jul. 13, 2015

He was ever utterly reckless of his reputation and his greatest pleasure seemed to be found in some form of malicious mischief.

From With Ethan Allen at Ticonderoga by Foster, W. Bertram