Vandal: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe someone who deliberately damages property, usually public or common areas.

• The vandals broke all the windows in the old building
• The park is often targeted by vandals

Often used in a more general sense to refer to someone or something that causes extensive destruction or ruin. Can refer to both physical destruction and abstract concepts like 'destroyer of dreams'.

• The hurricane was a powerful destroyer, leaving the town in ruins
• Many call him a destroyer of lives due to his ruthless business practices

Usually used to refer to a rowdy or violent person, especially in the context of sporting events or public disturbances. Has a more specific connotation of disorderly behavior.

• The hooligans were arrested after causing a riot at the soccer match
• A group of hooligans disrupted the peace at the concert

Used to describe someone who deliberately destroys or obstructs something, often for political or strategic reasons. It carries a connotation of intentional, secretive actions.

• The factory was shut down after a saboteur damaged the machinery
• During the war, saboteurs played a critical role in disrupting enemy operations

This word is best used to describe someone who deliberately damages or destroys property, often public property such as buildings, monuments, or cars. It carries a negative connotation.

• The vandals defaced the public park with graffiti.
• Security cameras captured the vandals breaking the shop windows.

This term is appropriate when referring to historical groups of people living in Northern Europe before and during the early Middle Ages, typically in an academic or educational setting.

• The Germanic tribes played a significant role in the fall of the Western Roman Empire.
• Historians study the migration patterns of various Germanic tribes.

Use this word to describe someone perceived as uncivilized, rude, or brutish, particularly in a historical or metaphorical sense. It can also have a derogatory meaning.

• The Romans often referred to their northern enemies as barbarians.
• She felt like a barbarian for not understanding the refined table manners.

This word is most suitably used to describe someone or a group that enters a place, especially a country, by force with the intent to conquer or occupy. It often describes military contexts.

• The invaders breached the city walls at dawn.
• The country prepared its defenses against the impending invasion.