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Definition of informer

informer

/ɪnˈfɔːrmər/
in · form · er
Plural:informers
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informer Lexical Profile

informer Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person who secretly gives information about illicit or criminal activity to the police or other authorities, often in exchange for money or leniency.

Example

"The police relied on a paid informer to uncover the details of the smuggling operation."

2

A person who communicates news, knowledge, or general information to others.

Example

"As a local historian, she served as a helpful informer on the town's architectural heritage."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for informer
Antonyms
View all antonyms for informer

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'informer' and 'informant' both refer to someone who supplies information, 'informer' carries a strong negative connotation of betrayal for reward or immunity, whereas 'informant' is a more neutral term used in law enforcement, journalism, and linguistics.

• Rhymes for informer

• Nearby Words

informativeness
informed
informedly
informer
infotainment
infotech
infraction

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Late Middle English from the verb 'inform' (from Old French 'informer' and Latin 'informare', meaning 'to shape, instruct, or describe') plus the agentive suffix '-er'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Informer. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/informer
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