slang. [f. SNITCH v.]
† 1. (See quot.) Obs.–1
1761. Ann. Reg., II. 51/1. He was a respectable member of the Bucks,—Bloods,—Snitchers,—Choice Spirits.
2. An informer, peacher; = SNITCH sb. 3.
1827. Examiner, 16 Dec., 796/2. That he deserved death he did not deny; for he had committed hundreds of robberies, but would not confess them, as it might implicate other parties, and he scorned to be a snitcher.
1859. in Slang Dict., 97.
1862. C. C. Robinson, Dial. Leeds, 415. Ah nivver wor a snitcher.
3. pl. Strings used by policemen in place of handcuffs. Sc.
1864. Slang Dict., 238. In Scotland SNITCHERS signify handcuffs.
1887. J. Service, Life Dr. Duguid, xxvi. 168. The polisman never had the snitchers in his pooch.
