A person who informs on others to authorities; an informant or tattletale. Also used as a verb meaning to inform or betray someone's secrets.
American slang of uncertain origin, first appearing in early 20th century. Possibly from German 'Fink' (finch), used as rhyming slang, or from Yiddish. Gained prominence during labor disputes when describing strikebreakers and informants.
Try Another Word