whistleblower

Whistleblower (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

IPA:

What does whistleblower mean?

An individual who exposes or reports information about illegal, unethical, or fraudulent activities within an organization or institution.
"The courageous whistleblower shed light on unethical practices in the pharmaceutical industry."

Detailed Meaning of Whistleblower

Often driven by a sense of moral responsibility or a desire for transparency and justice, whistleblowers come forward to disclose wrongdoing, misconduct, or violations of laws or regulations. They play a crucial role in uncovering and exposing corruption, fraud, safety hazards, or other wrongdoing that may be concealed or overlooked. Whistleblowers can be employees, former employees, or individuals with insider knowledge who choose to speak out despite potential risks to their personal and professional well-being. By disclosing vital information, whistleblowers serve as catalysts for accountability, integrity, and reform, bringing attention to issues that may otherwise go unnoticed or be intentionally concealed. Their actions can lead to investigations, legal proceedings, and the implementation of necessary changes to address the identified problems. Whistleblowers often play a significant role in promoting transparency, upholding ethical standards, and protecting the public interest.

Example Sentences for Whistleblower

1. The company's unethical practices were exposed by a courageous whistleblower.
2. In the realm of journalism, the whistleblower's identity is often protected.
3. Without the whistleblower, the scandal might never have been discovered.
4. The government offered the whistleblower asylum to ensure her safety.
5. The whistleblower's evidence led to a significant breakthrough in the case.
6. His career as a whistleblower started when he witnessed corruption within his department.

Origin and Etymology of Whistleblower

The noun 'whistleblower' is a compound word composed of 'whistle' and 'blower.' 'Whistle' has its origins in the Old English word 'hwistlian,' which meant to make a high-pitched sound, akin to blowing a whistle. 'Blower' is derived from Old English 'blawere,' referring to someone who blows or produces a current of air. The term 'whistleblower' emerged in the 20th century to describe an individual who, metaphorically, blows the whistle or alerts others to wrongdoing within an organization or institution. It signifies a person who courageously exposes or reports information about illegal, unethical, or fraudulent activities, often at great personal risk, with the intention of promoting transparency and accountability.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun whistleblower:

secret-keeper

hider

concealer

informant

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Whistleblower

1. The whistleblower's document leak sent shockwaves through the political landscape.
2. The company retaliated against the whistleblower, damaging her professional reputation.
3. A mysterious whistleblower claimed to have information about the city's mayor.
4. Protection for whistleblowers is vital in a transparent society.
5. The federal agency set up a hotline for whistleblowers.
6. Becoming a whistleblower is often a brave and risky decision.
7. The whistleblower's testimony was critical in the court case.
8. Whistleblower laws are designed to protect those who expose wrongdoing.
9. The actions of the whistleblower were hailed as heroic by some, but treasonous by others.
10. She was a whistleblower in a major pharmaceutical company, revealing their deceptive marketing tactics.
11. Fearful for his life, the whistleblower sought refuge in a foreign embassy.
12. After the scandal broke, the hunt for the whistleblower began.
13. The whistleblower endured harsh criticism, but never regretted his decision.
14. A reward was offered for information leading to the identification of the whistleblower.
15. The whistleblower exposed financial fraud within the company, leading to a thorough investigation.
16. The brave whistleblower risked their career to reveal the truth about environmental pollution.
17. The government offered protection to whistleblowers who came forward with evidence of corruption.
18. The whistleblower's revelations sparked public outrage and demanded immediate action.