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Vandalise Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vandalise

[ˈvæn.dəl.aɪz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

property damage

To vandalise means to deliberately destroy or damage public or private property. This action often involves graffiti, breaking windows, or damaging buildings and other structures. Vandalism is generally viewed as a crime and can lead to legal consequences. It is frequently associated with acts of rebellion or defiance and can have significant social and financial implications for communities. Individuals who engage in vandalism may be motivated by various factors including anger, frustration, or a desire for attention.

Synonyms

damage, deface, destroy, ruin.

Examples of usage

  • Teenagers vandalised the park benches with spray paint.
  • It is illegal to vandalise someone else's property.
  • The school hired security to prevent students from vandalising the building.
  • They were caught vandalising the local bus stop.
  • The city spent thousands to repair buildings vandalised during the protest.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Impact

  • Vandalism has sparked debates on art, ownership, and public vs. private space, with some arguing that street art can be a form of expression.
  • There are dedicated laws in many countries to penalize vandalism, reflecting society's values regarding respect for communal property.

Historical Examples

  • The destruction of the statues during the French Revolution was seen as a form of political vandalism, targeting symbols of the monarchy.
  • The graffiti movement of the 1980s transformed city landscapes but also raised questions about art versus vandalism.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that vandalism may stem from feelings of alienation, with some individuals expressing anger against societal norms.
  • The thrill or adrenaline of vandalizing can create a temporary emotional high, which is why some youth may engage in such acts.

Media Representation

  • Movies and TV often portray vandalism as a rebellious act, glamorizing it in youth culture despite real-world consequences.
  • Documentaries on urban decay explore how vandalism affects communities, highlighting both destruction and, in some cases, revitalization through art.

Origin of 'vandalise'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the name of the Vandals, an ancient tribe known for their attacks on the Roman Empire, often involving property damage.
  • The word first appeared in the English language in the 18th century to describe the destruction of art and monuments.

The term 'vandalise' originates from the name of the Vandals, a Germanic tribe that sacked Rome in 455 AD. Historically, the Vandals had a reputation for destruction and disorder, particularly in relation to art and culture. The term evolved to describe the actions of destroying property or public works without any empathy for the damage caused. In the early 19th century, the word began to be used more broadly to refer to acts of deliberate destruction or damage, particularly those that exhibit a lack of regard for property. This usage became more formalized with the rise of urban environments and the associated issues of graffiti and property crime. By the 20th century, 'vandalise' was widely accepted in legal contexts to denote acts of criminal damage.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,981, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.