informer
Translation
informer, informant, snitch
Examples
The police protected the informer from the gang.
The police protected the informer from the gang.
He was known as a government informer.
He was known as a government informer.
Grammar Patterns
((an informer)) ((for sb./sth.)) someone who gives information to another person or organization He was an informer for the police.
Similar Words
Synonyms: informant, snitch, mole, stool pigeon
Etymology
From the verb 'inform' (to give information) + the agent suffix '-er'. Literally 'one who informs'.
Memory Tips
Think of someone who gives 'in form'-ation to the authorities, often secretly. It carries a negative connotation.