vandalize

American  

[van-dl-ahyz] / ˈvæn dlˌaɪz /

especially British, vandalise

verb (used with object)

vandalized, vandalizing

1. to destroy or deface by vandalism.

   Someone vandalized the museum during the night.

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vandalize British  

/ ˈvændəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to destroy or damage (something) by an act of vandalism

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Etymology

Origin of vandalize

First recorded in 1790–1800; vandal + -ize

Example Sentences

Liverpool complained of “vile chants” during that game and said its stadium had been vandalized with graffiti.

From Seattle Times

Authorities are investigating whether he spread fake news about the country’s electoral system or inflamed a mob to invade and vandalize the presidential palace, the Supreme Court and congress after his defeat.

From Washington Post

The lawsuits accused Mr. Freestone and Ms. Smith-Stewart of vandalizing the Heartbeat of Miami pro-life pregnancy center and damaging its security camera with a laser in the July 3 attack.

From Washington Times

Following the most divisive election in its history, which culminated in thousands of rioters seizing and vandalizing the capital’s most important federal buildings, the country has celebrated weeks of Carnival revelry and quiet news cycles.

From Washington Post

Across the country, incidents have included complaints about students and teachers in middle and high schools dressing as Hitler, texting about gas chambers in group chats and vandalizing schools with swastikas, the ADL reported.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• deface
• demolish
• raze
• smash
• trash
• wreck