deface

Damage the surface

To deface something is to mar or damage its surface, especially in a way that diminishes its appearance or value.

Vandals deface statues, walls, or monuments with spray paint.

Currency can be defaced by writing on it.

The word suggests deliberate damage to something's face—its visible, public aspect: Someone defaced the campaign posters overnight.

vandalism

graffiti

Illegal surface markings

taggingAttaching identifying markers
spraypaintPressurized pigment in cans
scrawlCareless, illegible writing

scribble · desecration · vandalism · sabotage · destruction · damage · hooligan · delinquent · miscreant · monument

disfigure

scar

Permanent mark from healing

blemishVisible flaw or mark
mutilateInflict severe bodily harm
distortTwist from original form

deform · marred · disfigured · disfigurement · mangle · maim · slash · scratch · gouge · acid

damage

mar

Spoil the appearance

ruinComplete destruction or collapse
tarnishOxidation discoloration on metal
degradeLower in standing

impair · blight · destroy · corrode · erode · stain · soil · sully · defile · obliterate

dishonor

desecrate

Violate what's sacred

profaneIrreverent toward the sacred
disrespectLack of regard
disgraceLoss of honor

dishonor · denigrate · demean · debase · insult · mockery · sacrilege · violation · contempt · flag

Categories

destruction verbsdestroy, demolish, wreck, ruin, smash

Opposites

surface appearance/aesthetic condition

Make more attractive

embellish · adorn · ornament · decorate · enhance

preservation versus destruction

Protect from loss

protect · conserve · safeguard · maintain · save

restoration versus damage

Return to earlier state

repair · mend · fix · renovate · recondition

Family

defaced, defacement, defacing, defaces, defacer, defacers, defacements

Familiarity: Top 100,000
Profile: Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated PG