Vandalism Meaning and Definition
Vandalism
Pronunciation
/ˈvændəlɪzəm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The act of willfully or maliciously damaging or destroying public or private property, such as defacing a building or damaging a vehicle.
Examples
- The police are investigating a case of vandalism that occurred at the local park.
- Teenagers often engage in vandalism, such as spray-painting graffiti on a school wall.
Synonyms
- Malicious damage
- Property destruction
Antonyms
- Maintenance
- Preservation
Etymology
The word “vandalism” comes from the Vandals, a Germanic tribe that was known for their destruction of art and culture in the 5th and 6th centuries.
Usage Notes
Vandalism is often used to describe the destruction of property, but it can also refer to the destruction of ideas, values, or cultures.
Cultural References
Vandalism is a common theme in films, literature, and music, often symbolizing rebellion or social unrest.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
A case of vandalism having gone undetected; “The city has had a rash of unreported vandalism.”
Related Words or Phrases
- Property damage
- Malicious mischief
- Destroy
Collocations
- Vandalism is often accompanied by reckless driving.
- Vandalism may be a symptom of deeper social issues.
Frequency of Use
Vandalism is a relatively common phenomenon, and the word is often used in everyday language to describe instances of property damage or destruction.
Common Misspellings
- Vandilism
- Vandellism