Here's a breakdown of the meaning and connotations:
* Negative connotation: "Snitch" is almost always used in a negative way. It implies someone is untrustworthy, cowardly, and acting against the interests of their peers.
* Informant: While it can refer to anyone who gives information to authorities, it's often used in contexts where the information is considered "ratting out" someone who has done something wrong or illegal.
* Origin: The term comes from the word "snitch," meaning "to steal," and has been used to describe informers since the 19th century.
Examples:
* "Don't be a snitch and tell the teacher we were skipping class."
* "The snitch revealed the location of the robbery, leading to the arrest of the gang."
It's important to note that "snitch" is considered informal language and should be used cautiously in formal settings.