insider
UK: ɪnˈsaɪdə | US: ɪnˈsaɪdər
n. a person who is part of a group or organization and has access to confidential information
n. someone with privileged knowledge due to their position or connections
The word "insider" combines "inside," derived from Old English innan (within) and sīde (side), with the agentive suffix "-er," indicating a person associated with an action or state. Originally literal (one physically inside), it evolved metaphorically to denote someone with exclusive access to information or systems. The term reflects societal hierarchies where proximity to "the inside" grants authority or advantage.
The journalist relied on an insider to leak the corporate scandal.
As an insider, she knew about the merger before it was announced.
Insider trading is illegal because it exploits confidential data.
The book offers an insider’s perspective on political campaigns.
Tech insiders predict the new product will revolutionize the industry.