Vandalising Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
vandalising
[หvรฆndษlaษชzษชล ]
Definition
criminal activity
Vandalising refers to the act of deliberately destroying or damaging property. It is often considered a criminal offense and can involve anything from graffiti to the destruction of public sculptures.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The teenagers were caught vandalising the public park.
- Vandalising the school walls with paint is illegal.
- They faced charges for vandalising the historic monument.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term comes from the Vandals, an ancient tribe known for their destruction during the fall of the Roman Empire.
- The word was adopted in the 18th century to describe the intentional destruction of artworks and buildings.
Law
- Vandalism is often categorized as a misdemeanor crime and can lead to fines or community service.
- Many cities have laws that specifically protect public property from vandalism, reflecting its social impact.
Art
- Street art can sometimes blur the line; while seen as vandalism, it can also be viewed as a form of artistic expression.
- Valuable artworks have been damaged due to vandalism, igniting debates over preservation and freedom of expression.
Psychology
- Some studies suggest that vandalism can be an expression of aggression or a cry for attention, often linked to a person's environment.
- Young people may engage in vandalism as part of rebellious behavior, seeking acceptance among peers or pushing boundaries.
Social Movements
- Vandalism has sometimes been used symbolically during protests to challenge authority and draw attention to injustice.
- Acts of vandalism in these contexts can provoke dialogues about the messages behind the destruction and its societal implications.
Origin of 'vandalising'
The term 'vandalise' derives from the name of the Vandals, a Germanic tribe that famously sacked Rome in 455 AD. Their actions of destruction and pillage led to the term 'vandalism' being coined in the 18th century. It was first used in literary works to describe acts that were perceived as senselessly destructive or mischievous. The word evolved over time and began to be associated not only with the actions of the Vandals but also with any similar acts against art, culture, and public property. The modern usage of 'vandalism' reflects broader social concerns regarding property rights, art preservation, and public decorum.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #42,744, 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.