A snitch Meaning and Definition
A snitch
Pronunciation
/ˈsnɪtʃ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A snitch is a person who informs against another for a crime or an offense, often viewed as betrayer or informant. The term is also used to describe someone who reveals sensitive information, typically in a way that is perceived as disloyal or untrustworthy.
Examples
- He was labeled a snitch after reporting his friend to the authorities.
- The whistleblower was accused of being a snitch and facing backlash from the community.
Synonyms
- Informant
- Tip-off
- Rat
Antonyms
- Loyalist
- Patriot
Etymology
The word ‘snitch’ is believed to have originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the verb ‘snitch,’ which means to snatch or grab. Over time, the term evolved to describe someone who takes or reveals sensitive information, often in a way that is perceived as disloyal or untrustworthy.
Usage Notes
When using the word ‘snitch,’ it is essential to consider the context and tone of the conversation. In some cases, the term may be used as a legitimate description of someone who reports a crime or reveals sensitive information. However, in other contexts, the word may carry a negative connotation, implying betrayal or disloyalty.
Cultural References
The term ‘snitch’ has been used in various forms of media, including music, film, and literature. In the context of hip-hop culture, the word often carries a negative connotation, implying that someone has betrayed their community by cooperating with authorities.
Examples of cultural references include the song “Snitch” by Young Thug and the film “Snitch” (2013) starring Dwayne Johnson.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
The word ‘snitch’ is often used in idiomatic expressions or phrases, such as:
- “Snitch on someone” (to inform against someone)
- “Snitching” (informing against someone or revealing sensitive information)
- “Rat on someone” (to inform against someone)
Related Words or Phrases
Words or phrases closely related to ‘snitch’ include:
- Informant
- Tip-off
- Rat
- Whistleblower
Collocations
Common word combinations with ‘snitch’ include:
- “Snitch out” (to inform against someone)
- “Snitch on someone for” (to inform against someone for a specific crime or offense)
- “Snitching on someone’s” (informing against someone’s friends or family)
Frequency of Use
The word ‘snitch’ has gained popularity in modern language, particularly in urban contexts. According to Google Ngram Viewer, the term has seen a significant increase in usage over the past few decades.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings and variations of the word ‘snitch’ include:
- Snitche
- Snitchy
- Snich