Pronunciation: [nˈɑːk] (IPA) 
The word "nark" is often spelled incorrectly, with variations such as "narc" or "knark." The correct spelling of this slang term for a police informant is /nɑːk/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The letter "a" is pronounced as the "a" in "car," and the "r" is silent, as is common in British English. It's important to use the correct spelling when communicating to avoid confusion and ensure clarity in writing or speech.
Nark, as a noun, refers to a person who betrays or informs on others, particularly to law enforcement authorities. It typically refers to someone who covertly provides information about the illegal activities or plans of criminals or other wrongdoers, often in exchange for personal gain or immunity. The term is commonly associated with the criminal underworld and is often used to describe individuals who act as informants or undercover agents. In this sense, a nark is seen as someone who clandestinely gathers evidence or intelligence to aid in the investigation or apprehension of criminals.
As a verb, "nark" means to betray or inform on someone, especially by providing information about their illicit activities. It is often used to describe the act of acting as a police informant or undercover agent. To nark on someone implies a secretive and sometimes dishonorable action of revealing confidential or incriminating information about another person, which can result in legal consequences or risks personal relationships. The verb form of nark may also be used more broadly to describe being overly critical or spoiling someone's enjoyment, as in "stop narking on my fun!"
Overall, "nark" denotes an individual who provides covert information or acts as a betrayer, particularly in relation to criminal activities, and can function as both a noun and a verb.
The word "nark" has a somewhat complex etymology. It originated as a slang term in British English in the late 19th century, primarily used in criminal and underground contexts.
The exact origins of the word are somewhat uncertain, but there are a few proposed theories. One theory suggests that "nark" may have derived from the Romani (Gypsy) language, as it bears similarities to the Romani word "nak", meaning "nose". In Gypsy slang, the term "nose" was used to refer to a police informer.
Another theory suggests that "nark" may have originated from the word "narcotics", indicating someone associated with or knowledgeable about illegal drugs. This theory implies that "nark" was initially used to refer to a person who reported drug-related offenses to the police.
