informer
Informer (noun) means someone who secretly tells the authorities about a crime or wrongdoing. Example: “The gang suspected there was an informer in their ranks.”
How to use informer
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA person who passes secret information to police or officials, often about criminals.
Usually carries a negative, "snitch"-like tone rather than a neutral one.
Word forms
informers plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The gang suspected there was an _____ in their ranks.
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman enfourmour — the same root as "inform" plus the "-er" agent ending.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for informer
See all rhymes for informer →Frequently asked questions
What does “informer” mean?
The word “informer” means someone who secretly tells the authorities about a crime or wrongdoing. In plain terms, a person who passes secret information to police or officials, often about criminals.
How do you use “informer” in a sentence?
Here is “informer” used in a sentence: “The gang suspected there was an informer in their ranks.”
What is another word for “informer”?
Words with a similar meaning to “informer” include informant.
What part of speech is “informer”?
“Informer” is a noun.
Where does the word “informer” come from?
The word “informer” comes from Anglo-Norman. From Anglo-Norman enfourmour — the same root as "inform" plus the "-er" agent ending.