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

Temujin K. Lapsley was sentenced Friday in Allen County after pleading guilty in December to malicious mischief involving infected bodily fluids.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 8, 2018

Both men also face charges of malicious mischief.

From Washington Times • Jul. 13, 2015

Lack of a certain sense of balance, which Leslie had possessed, had prompted her to enjoy a kind of malicious mischief of which Leslie would not have entertained a thought.

From Marjorie Dean, College Senior by Lester, Pauline