definition of snitch , meaning, synonym, antonym, use example and related words to snitch

SNITCH

Definition of SNITCH

SNITCH

A snitch can function as both a noun and a verb, commonly referring to someone who informs on others, especially to the authorities, often in a secretive or betraying manner. As a verb, snitch denotes the action of informing or reporting on someone’s wrongdoing, typically for personal gain or to avoid trouble.

SNITCH as a noun

As a noun, a snitch refers to a person who covertly informs on others, often to authorities or figures of authority, such as police or supervisors. It can carry negative connotations, implying betrayal, disloyalty, or a lack of trustworthiness, particularly within close-knit communities or social circles.

Informant or Informer: The noun snitch is synonymous with terms like informant, informer, or whistleblower, indicating someone who provides information about illicit or illegal activities to law enforcement or other relevant parties. In some contexts, a snitch may be seen as a necessary informant for maintaining order or preventing crime, while in others, they may be viewed with disdain or suspicion.

Snitch as a Verb

As a verb, to snitch means to secretly inform on someone’s wrongdoing or misdeeds, often with the intention of gaining favor, avoiding punishment, or settling scores. It involves reporting information to authorities or other parties that may lead to the apprehension, punishment, or reprimand of the individual in question.

Reporting or Informing: The verb snitch encompasses actions such as reporting criminal activity to the police, disclosing violations of rules or regulations to supervisors or authorities, or divulging confidential information to third parties. It implies a breach of trust or confidentiality, as well as a willingness to prioritize personal interests over loyalty to others.

Examples of Snitching: Examples of snitching include a witness reporting a crime they witnessed to the police, an employee informing on a coworker for violating company policies, a student telling a teacher about a classmate’s cheating, or a prisoner providing information to prison guards about illicit activities among fellow inmates.

Snitch serves as both a noun and a verb, describing a person who covertly informs on others’ wrongdoing and the action of secretly reporting such behavior. It can carry negative connotations of betrayal or disloyalty, depending on the context, but may also be perceived as necessary for maintaining order or enforcing rules and regulations.

  • Informal Informant:
    • Definition: A snitch is an informal term used to describe an individual who provides information, especially to authorities, often about the wrongdoing or activities of others. It is commonly associated with reporting on criminal behavior.
  • Informant or Tattletale:
    • Definition: In various contexts, a snitch may refer to an informant or someone who reveals confidential information, particularly with the intention of gaining favor or protection.
  • Betrayal through Revelation:
    • Definition: The term can imply an act of betrayal through the revelation of sensitive or secret information, leading to consequences for the person or group being exposed.
  • Unauthorized Discloser:
    • Definition: A snitch is someone who discloses information without proper authorization, often breaking trust or confidentiality.
  • Informer or Whistleblower:
    • Definition: A snitch shares similarities with an informer or whistleblower, as it involves divulging information about others, particularly when illegal or unethical activities are involved.
  • Cooperating Witness:
    • Definition: In legal contexts, a snitch may be someone who cooperates with law enforcement as a witness, providing information crucial to investigations.
  • Revealer of Secrets:
    • Definition: The term may be used to describe someone who reveals secrets or confidential information, potentially causing harm or disruption.
  • Discloser of Wrongdoing:
    • Definition: A snitch is often associated with disclosing wrongdoing or misconduct, leading to consequences for those involved.

Examples of SNITCH in a sentence

SNITCH as a noun in a sentence

  • He was labeled a snitch after reporting the theft to the authorities.
  • The snitch faced backlash from his peers for betraying their trust.
  • She was accused of being a snitch when she revealed the cheating scandal.
  • The school had a strict policy against snitches, discouraging students from reporting incidents.
  • In prison, being labeled a snitch could have dangerous consequences.
  • The snitch provided crucial information that led to the apprehension of the criminal.
  • Being known as a snitch made it difficult for him to make friends in the neighborhood.
  • The detective relied on informants and snitches to gather intelligence on the criminal organization.

SNITCH as a verb in a sentence

  • He decided to snitch on his friends to avoid getting into trouble himself.
  • She reluctantly snitched on her coworker for stealing office supplies.
  • The witness was reluctant to snitch out of fear of retaliation.
  • He felt guilty about snitching but knew it was the right thing to do.
  • The inmate was pressured by the guards to snitch on his fellow prisoners.
  • The gang members warned him not to snitch if he valued his safety.
  • She debated whether to snitch on her roommate for breaking the rules.
  • The police offered immunity to anyone willing to snitch on the drug ring.

Origin of SNITCH

The term snitch has an interesting etymology. Its origins can be traced to various sources, and its evolution over time has contributed to its current usage:

  • Old English (snīcan): The word “snitch” is believed to have roots in the Old English verb “snīcan,” which means “to sneak” or “to creep.” In its early usage, it was associated with moving stealthily or quietly.
  • Middle English (snichen): The Middle English form “snichen” continued the idea of sneaking or moving furtively. It also acquired connotations of informing or betraying someone, often in a secretive manner.
  • 19th Century Slang (snitch): The term gained popularity in 19th-century slang, especially in the United States, where it started being used as a colloquial term for an informant or someone who provides information to authorities, often in a clandestine way.
  • Prison Slang: The term became particularly associated with prison culture, where inmates may use snitch to refer to someone who informs on fellow prisoners or collaborates with authorities.

The word has evolved from denoting a quiet, sneaky movement to its modern usage as a colloquial term for an informant or someone who reveals information, often in a secretive or betraying manner. The evolution of the term reflects its association with secrecy, betrayal, and providing information to authorities, especially in contexts like law enforcement or criminal activities.

Synonyms

  • Informer
  • Whistleblower
  • Tipster
  • Rat
  • Mole
  • Spy
  • Double-crosser
  • Turncoat

Antonyms

  • Ally
  • Collaborator
  • Protector
  • Loyalist
  • Teammate
  • Defender
  • Accomplice

Related

  • Inform
  • Betray
  • Report
  • Divulge
  • Cooperate
  • Disclose
  • Insider

🌐 🇬🇧 SNITCH in other languages

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