vandalism

American  

[van-dl-iz-uhm] / ˈvæn dlˌɪz əm /

noun

1. deliberately mischievous or malicious destruction or damage of property.

   vandalism of public buildings.

2. the conduct or spirit characteristic of the Vandals.

3. willful or ignorant destruction of artistic or literary treasures.

4. a vandalic act.

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vandalism British  

/ ˈvændəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the wanton or deliberate destruction caused by a vandal or an instance of such destruction

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Other Word Forms

• vandalish adjective
• vandalistic adjective

Etymology

Origin of vandalism

1790–1800; vandal + -ism; compare French vandalisme

Example Sentences

A spokesperson for the Greater London Authority said it was "appalled by this vandalism".

From BBC

In Orange County, Westminster Mall, a once-popular shopping center that has been tarnished by graffiti and vandalism since it closed last year, is on track for demolition soon.

From Los Angeles Times

By its count, only 71 incidents had a clear communal element, including 38 cases of temple vandalism, eight attacks on temples, and one killing.

From BBC

Just as the trial for Samuel Patrick Groft was about to kick off, the 45-year-old instead pleaded no contest Wednesday to a slew of vandalism charges stemming from the seven-day slashing rampage.

From Los Angeles Times

Westminster Mall, a once-popular shopping center that has been desecrated by graffiti and vandalism since it closed last year, is on track for demolition soon.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• mischief