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Graffiti Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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graffiti

[ษกrษ™หˆfiหti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

art

Drawings or writing scribbled, scratched, or sprayed illicitly on a wall or other surface in a public place.

Synonyms

street art, vandalism.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
graffiti

Graffiti refers to drawings, writings, or marks made on walls or other surfaces, typically in public places, and can range from simple words to elaborate murals. It can be seen as both artistic expression and public disturbance, depending on its content and location.

  • The old warehouse was covered in colorful graffiti.
  • Graffiti often reflects societal issues and urban culture.
street art

Street art generally describes visual art created in public locations for aesthetic or communicative purposes and is usually perceived positively. It is often commissioned or authorized and can include murals, stencils, and other forms of public art that aim to beautify or convey a message.

  • The city commissioned new street art to enhance the community park.
  • Street art festivals attract artists from all over the world.
vandalism

Vandalism indicates the deliberate destruction or defacement of property and is always seen in a negative light. It involves damaging surfaces like walls, vehicles, or public structures without permission, often resulting in legal consequences.

  • The school was closed for repairs after repeated incidents of vandalism.
  • Spray-painting obscene messages on public property is considered vandalism.

Examples of usage

  • The alley was filled with graffiti of all shapes and colors.
  • The city council is trying to find ways to prevent graffiti in the downtown area.
Context #2 | Noun

art

A work of art created in this way.

Synonyms

mural, tag.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
graffiti

Here, graffiti is often used interchangeably with street art, focusing on artistic expressions created in public spaces. It emphasizes the creative and sometimes political messages conveyed through the art.

  • The art festival celebrated the beauty of graffiti as a form of urban expression.
  • Many people consider graffiti to be a vibrant part of the cultural landscape.
mural

A mural is a large painting or artwork created directly on a wall or ceiling, typically commissioned or authorized. Unlike graffiti, murals are usually planned and seen as a legitimate form of artwork.

  • The school's gymnasium features a stunning mural depicting the history of the city.
  • She was commissioned to paint a mural on the side of the community center.
tag

A tag is a form of graffiti where an individual leaves a stylized signature or symbol on a surface. Tags are often quick and simple, serving as a marker of the person's presence. They are frequently associated with vandalism and considered to have a negative connotation.

  • The subway station was covered in tags from different graffiti artists.
  • Local businesses are frustrated by the tags that keep appearing on their property.

Examples of usage

  • She admired the graffiti on the abandoned building.
  • The graffiti artist was known for his unique style.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'graffiti'

The term 'graffiti' is derived from the Italian word 'graffito', meaning 'scratched'. Graffiti has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations where people would leave marks or drawings on walls. In modern times, graffiti has evolved into a form of artistic expression, with many artists using it to convey social or political messages.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,502, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.