informer

in-for-mer · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A person who informs on another person to the police or other authority, often with negative connotations of betrayal.

  2. 2.

    A person who provides information.

Forms

plural: informers

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    police informer — someone who secretly provides information to police
  • •
    turn informer — begin providing information to authorities

Related words

See also: inform, informant, snitch
Synonyms: informant, snitch, tattletale

Etymology

From Latin informare ("to inform") + -er (agent suffix). Often carries a more negative connotation than "informant," suggesting betrayal or treachery.