fink etymology

Etymology

The word "fink" has two distinct origins:

1. German:

   • From the Middle High German word "vinke," meaning "finch (a small songbird)."
   • German immigrants used the term to describe someone who was a spy or informer.

2. Yiddish:

   • Possibly from the Yiddish word "pinken," meaning "to blink" or "to wink."
   • This origin suggests that a "fink" was someone who informed on others secretly.

Meaning

A "fink" is a person who:

• Betrays or informs on others, especially to authorities or enemies.
• Acts as a spy, informer, or telltale.
• Is considered an underhanded, untrustworthy, or contemptible individual.

Origin

The word "fink" first appeared in the 1800s in the United States. Initially, it was used primarily in prison slang to refer to an inmate who informed on others to prison guards.

Over time, the term gained wider use in American slang to describe anyone who betrayed or informed on others, regardless of the context. Today, "fink" is considered a derogatory and insulting term, often used to express contempt for someone who has acted dishonorably.

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