What does deface mean?
To deface something is to spoil or disfigure its surface, most commonly by writing on it, scribbling over it, or scratching it — as when vandals deface a wall with graffiti or protesters deface a statue with paint. The word can also be used more broadly for any act that damages the appearance or value of an object, including the deliberate mutilation of currency or documents. Deface almost always implies intentional wrongdoing rather than accidental wear: a coin worn smooth by handling is not defaced, but one scratched with initials is. The word derives from the Latin facies, meaning face or appearance, and thus literally suggests ruining the face of something. Its noun form is defacement. Because of its strong legal and moral overtones, deface appears frequently in journalism, police reports, and statutes dealing with vandalism and the destruction of public property.
verbTo deface is to spoil the surface or appearance of something, especially by writing, drawing, or scratching on it; it also means to damage or disfigure something so that its original form or value is impaired.
- To spoil the surface of something by writing, marking, or scratching on it.
- To damage or disfigure something so that its appearance or value is impaired.
"Vandals defaced the historic monument with spray paint overnight."
"Protesters defaced the billboard with bold political slogans."
"Counterfeiters who deliberately deface banknotes can face serious criminal charges."
The same Latin root 'face' that gives us surface and facet also gives us deface — literally to ruin a face.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of deface
Deface comes from Middle English, borrowed from Old French desfacier, formed from des- (expressing reversal or undoing) plus face, ultimately from Latin facies, meaning face, form, or appearance. It entered English around the late fourteenth century. It shares this Latin root with efface (to erase), superficial (on the surface), and facet (a little face), all preserving the idea of a surface or outward aspect.
Related word forms
How deface is actually used
Deface carries a strongly negative connotation and often implies deliberate, unlawful vandalism. It is common in news reporting about graffiti and property crime, and in legal contexts concerning the willful damaging of public or private property.
Easily confused with deface
To efface something is to erase or wipe it out entirely, whereas to deface it is to damage or spoil its surface.
Disfigure emphasizes permanently ruining the shape or beauty of a person or thing, while deface typically refers to marring a surface, often by writing or graffiti.