Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Vandalize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿš๏ธ
Add to dictionary

vandalize

[หˆvรฆndษ™หŒlaษชz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

destroy property

To vandalize means to deliberately destroy or damage public or private property, often in a reckless or malicious way. Vandalizing can include graffiti, breaking windows, or defacing buildings. It is considered a criminal act and can result in legal consequences.

Synonyms

damage, deface, destroy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
vandalize

Typically used when referring to the deliberate act of damaging or destroying property, often public or cultural property, with a negative connotation.

  • The ancient statue was vandalized by unknown individuals last night.
  • The school suffered multiple incidents of vandalism over the summer.
damage

Used when referring to harm or injury caused to a thing, building, or structure, either accidentally or intentionally. It's a more neutral term compared to 'vandalize'.

  • The storm caused significant damage to the roof of the house.
  • The paint job was damaged when someone scratched the car.
deface

Primarily used for situations where the appearance of something, such as a public or private property, is marred or disfigured intentionally, usually by writing or drawing on it.

  • Someone defaced the monument by spray-painting graffiti all over it.
  • The library books were defaced with scribbles and doodles across the pages.
destroy

This word is used when something is completely ruined or made unusable. It is more intense than 'damage' and often involves total annihilation.

  • The wildfire destroyed several homes in the neighborhood.
  • The documents were destroyed to protect sensitive information.

Examples of usage

  • The group of teenagers vandalized the park by spray painting graffiti on the benches.
  • The vandals broke the windows of the abandoned house last night.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Legal Perspectives

  • Vandalism is considered a crime in many jurisdictions, often treated as a misdemeanor or felony depending on damage.
  • Penalties may include fines, community service, or even imprisonment, illustrating the seriousness of the act.
  • Insurance companies may not cover damages from vandalism, leading to financial burdens for victims.

Cultural Impact

  • Street art can sometimes blur the line between vandalism and legitimate artistic expression, with debates on legality and value.
  • Famous works of graffiti can gain recognition and transform perceived vandalism into celebrated art in urban culture.
  • Certain movements, such as Banksy's, challenge the stigma by showcasing how vandalism can convey powerful social messages.

Psychology

  • Research indicates that some individuals vandalize as a form of rebellion against authority or societal norms.
  • Vandalism can be rooted in underlying issues, such as a search for identity or expressing dissatisfaction with oneโ€™s environment.
  • Peer influence often motivates adolescents to engage in vandalism, highlighting the importance of social dynamics in such behaviors.

Environmental Concerns

  • Vandalism of natural resources, like tree carving or littering, poses threats to ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
  • Efforts to combat vandalism in parks and public spaces often include community programs that promote respect for nature.
  • Some organizations encourage 'clean-up' days to repair damages caused by vandalism, emphasizing stewardship of communal spaces.

Origin of 'vandalize'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Vandals, an ancient tribe known for their destruction of Roman culture during their invasions.
  • First recorded use of the word 'vandalize' dates back to the late 18th century, focusing on the act of destroying art.
  • In the 19th century, the term expanded to include a wider range of destructive behaviors, beyond just art.

The word 'vandalize' comes from the term 'Vandal', which was a Germanic tribe that invaded and ravaged the Roman Empire in the 5th century. The Vandals were known for their destructive behavior, and over time, the term 'vandal' came to be associated with senseless destruction. The word 'vandalize' first appeared in English in the early 19th century.

See also: vandalism.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,674, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.