tipster

word

Definition

A tipster is a person who gives helpful or secret information, often about news, crime, or betting, especially tips about who will win in sports or races.

Usage & Nuances

Most common in journalism (anonymous news sources) and gambling (sports betting advice). Can be neutral or informal. Not used for official police informants (those are 'informers' or 'sources'). In betting, 'tipster' usually means someone who predicts outcomes for profit.

Example Sentences

The police received a call from a tipster about the robbery.

basic

A tipster told the newspaper about the scandal.

basic

Many people follow a tipster for sports betting advice.

basic

After an anonymous tipster called, the story made front-page news.

natural

He made a living as a tipster, selling predictions to gamblers online.

natural

Someone tipped us off, but we still don't know who the tipster was.

natural