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Snitches Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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snitches

[หˆsnษชtสƒษชz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

informant

A person who provides information to the authorities about someone else's criminal activities.

Synonyms

informant, rat, tattletale, traitor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
snitches

Used to refer to people who secretly inform someone in authority about someone else's wrongdoing. Often used in informal language and carries a negative connotation, suggesting betrayal.

  • Kids at school are quick to say 'snitches get stitches' when someone tells the teacher about their mischief
informant

Used in formal contexts, such as law enforcement or journalism, to refer to someone who provides confidential information. This word does not necessarily carry a negative connotation and can be neutral or even positive.

  • The police relied on an informant to gather crucial details about the crime ring
tattletale

Commonly used to describe children who tell adults about others' minor misdeeds. It carries a mild negative tone and is often used to discourage such behavior among kids.

  • Stop being such a tattletale, it's just a little prank
rat

A highly informal and derogative term used to describe someone who betrays or informs on others, especially to avoid trouble themselves. It implies deep mistrust and scorn.

  • He was labeled a rat by his old friends after he told the authorities about their illegal activities
traitor

Used to describe someone who betrays a trust, often implying a serious breach of loyalty. It is a very strong term with highly negative connotations, applicable in personal, professional, or national contexts.

  • During the war, anyone suspected of being a traitor was severely punished

Examples of usage

  • The police were able to make an arrest thanks to a tip-off from one of the snitches.
  • The gang leader was furious when he found out that one of his own men had been working as a snitch for the rival gang.
Context #2 | Verb

betraying

To inform on someone to the authorities about their wrongdoing or criminal activities.

Examples of usage

  • He snitches on his friends to save himself from trouble.
  • She was labeled as a snitch after she decided to report the illegal activities to the police.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In the context of hip-hop culture, the term often carries a negative connotation, referring to betrayal among peers.
  • TV shows and movies often depict 'snitches' as characters who face severe consequences for their betrayal.
  • The phrase 'snitches get stitches' suggests that informing can lead to physical retaliation among some groups.

Legal Context

  • In courtroom settings, witnesses can be viewed as 'snitches' when they testify against someone, even if it serves justice.
  • Some legal systems may offer protection or incentives for informing on criminal activities, highlighting the complex nature of being a 'snitch.'
  • Historically, some laws have favored whistleblower protection to encourage reporting wrongdoings.

Psychology

  • Feeling like a 'snitch' can cause significant moral conflict, leading to stress and anxiety in social situations.
  • The stigma associated with being a snitch can create strong group dynamics, influencing whether individuals choose to report wrongdoing or stay silent.
  • Studies suggest that group loyalty often outweighs moral considerations, making individuals reluctant to act as 'snitches.'

Literature

  • In various literary works, snitches serve as a plot device to explore themes of loyalty, betrayal, and morality.
  • The character of the 'snitch' often presents a moral dilemma, challenging readersโ€™ perspectives on justice and trust.
  • Famous literature often depicts snitches facing consequences, reflecting societal values about betrayal and integrity.

Origin of 'snitches'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from the verb 'to snitch,' which appeared in American English in the late 19th century, likely from slang among criminals.
  • Related to the word 'snitcher,' it conveys the act of informing on someone, often in a betrayal context.
  • Some sources trace its connection to the Middle English 'snite,' meaning to snitch or to betray.

The word 'snitches' originated from the Middle English word 'snichen', meaning 'to inform or steal'. Over time, the term evolved to refer specifically to individuals who inform on others, especially in criminal contexts. Snitches play a complex role in society, often facing backlash for their actions while also being seen as crucial sources of information for law enforcement.

See also: snitch.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,993, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.