Snitches: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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