vandalize

[ van-dl-ahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, van·dal·ized, van·dal·iz·ing.

1. to destroy or deface by vandalism:

   Someone vandalized the museum during the night.

vandalize

/ ˈvændəˌlaɪz /

verb

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of vandalize¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; vandal + -ize

Example Sentences

“Officers located six to seven businesses which were vandalized and the instance is being investigated as a hate crime,” Cuellar said.

From Los Angeles Times

In downtown L.A., multiple businesses were burglarized or vandalized, though exact details were not available.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s one thing to celebrate but another thing to vandalize,” the Jalisco native said in Spanish.

From Los Angeles Times

He noted that several of Baugh’s signs had also recently been vandalized.

From Los Angeles Times

“They really completely destroyed everything. There is broken glass everywhere. It’s been defamed, vandalized,” said the agent who is selling the property and spoke on condition that she would not be named.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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