vandalism
UK: ˈvændəlɪzəm | US: ˈvændəlɪzəm
n. the deliberate destruction or damage of public or private property
n. (historical) the behavior attributed to the Vandals, a Germanic tribe known for pillaging Rome in 455 CE
The word "vandalism" derives from the name of the Vandals, a Germanic tribe infamous for sacking Rome in 455 CE. Their reputation for wanton destruction led French bishop Henri Grégoire to coin "vandalisme" in 1794 during the French Revolution to criticize the destruction of cultural artifacts. The suffix "-ism" was added to denote the ideology or behavior associated with such acts. Over time, the term broadened to describe any deliberate property damage.
The graffiti on the historic monument was an act of vandalism.
Local authorities are cracking down on vandalism in public parks.
Some argue that removing statues is not vandalism but a reevaluation of history.
The museum installed cameras to prevent vandalism.
Vandals broke windows and spray-painted walls, leaving the neighborhood in dismay.