What does snitch mean?
To snitch is to report someone else’s actions, often to a parent, teacher, employer, or police. The word usually implies that the informer has betrayed a companion or associate, so it commonly carries a strongly negative, contemptuous connotation. It can also refer more mildly to tattling or complaining about minor misconduct. As a noun, a snitch is a person who gives information about others, particularly a police informant or someone who has informed on a peer. “Snitch on someone” is the most frequent expression in contemporary informal usage. Although the word is used in both British and American English, it is especially frequent in American speech and may sound derogatory when directed at a witness or confidential source.
To inform on another person, especially to betray or report a companion or associate.
"He refused to snitch on his friend."
Informal and usually disapproving; often used with “on.”
To complain or tattle about minor wrongdoing.
"Children sometimes snitch when a friend breaks a rule."
This sense is informal and can suggest petty or opportunistic reporting.
A person who informs on another person, especially to the police or another authority.
"The police interviewed the snitch who had witnessed the assault."
Commonly derogatory; frequently used in American English.
A police informant or confidential source who supplies information about criminal activity.
"The reward was offered to anyone who could identify the snitch."
Usually informal and often viewed as disparaging.
The plural is used for people who inform on others or serve as informants.
"Several snitches provided evidence during the investigation."
“Snitch” captures the betrayal of being reported by someone you trusted.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does snitch come from?
The origin of “snitch” is uncertain. Its familiar sense of informing on another person emerged in the 19th century, and the word may be related to older uses meaning to steal or to steal in a small way. Because the precise development is not securely established, its connection to those earlier senses should be treated as a possibility rather than a definite fact.
Related word forms
How snitch is actually used
The verb is informal and generally carries a negative or disapproving connotation, suggesting betrayal or petty informing. “Snitch” as a noun is especially common in informal American English and may be considered derogatory when referring to a person.
Easily confused with snitch
A sneak acts quietly or furtively, whereas a snitch reports information about another person.
Switch is a noun and verb referring to a device, a change, or the act of changing; it is not a synonym for snitch.