Definition

A person who provides information, especially to someone in authority or for research purposes.

Example

The police relied on an informant to gather details about the criminal activities in the area.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new informant in town?

Yeah, I heard he has some interesting stories to share.

I wonder how he became an informant for the police.

Probably just wanted to help out or maybe he has his own reasons.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Informant → It is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "formare" (meaning to shape or form). An informant is someone who shapes or provides information into a particular context.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'shaping' ('formare') information 'into' a context ('in-') — that's why an informant is someone who provides information.

Visually Confused Words