informant

noun

in·​for·​mant in-ˈfȯr-mənt How to pronounce informant (audio)
Synonyms of informantnext
: a person who gives information: such as
a
b
: one who supplies cultural or linguistic data in response to interrogation by an investigator

Examples of informant in a Sentence

The police were alerted to the plot by a paid informant. We learned the language with the help of a native informant.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Lucaville Italy is also developing a psychological thriller based on Dario Argento’s directorial debut The Bird with the Crystal Plumage and a serialized reboot of Palermo Milan, a cross-European action drama following a security detail escorting a key ‘Ndrangheta informant. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 24 Mar. 2026 Durham sent the informant a message on Brand's behalf. Rebecca Rosman, NPR, 21 Mar. 2026 The informant also alleged the rapper kept women locked in his basement, however, no one was found inside the residence and the rapper was never charged. Angeline Jane Bernabe, ABC News, 19 Mar. 2026 Under constant surveillance from informants and prying neighbors, the pair must conceal their enduring love while navigating a society on the brink of collapse, and the promise of newfound freedom. Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 18 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for informant

Word History

First Known Use

1641, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of informant was in 1641

Cite this Entry

“Informant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/informant. Accessed 26 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

informant

noun
in·​for·​mant in-ˈfȯr-mənt How to pronounce informant (audio)

Legal Definition

informant

noun
in·​for·​mant in-ˈfȯr-mənt How to pronounce informant (audio)
: one who informs against another
specifically : one who makes a practice especially for money of informing police of others' criminal activities

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