vandal
UK: ˈvænd(ə)l | US: ˈvænd(ə)l
n. a person who deliberately destroys or damages property
n. (historical) a member of the Germanic tribe that sacked Rome in 455 CE
The word "vandal" originates from the Vandals, a Germanic tribe notorious for their sack of Rome in 455 CE, during which they looted and destroyed cultural artifacts. By the 17th century, "vandal" evolved metaphorically to describe anyone who willfully damages property or cultural heritage. The suffix "-al" nominalizes the tribal name, turning it into a label for destructive behavior.
The museum condemned the vandals who spray-painted the ancient statue.
Historical records describe the Vandals as fierce warriors.
Acts of vandalism in the park have increased recently.
He was arrested for being a vandal after breaking streetlights.
The term "vandal" reflects the lasting impact of the tribe’s infamous actions.