inform

(ĭn-fôrmˈ)

1. a. To impart information to; make aware of something: We were informed by mail of the change in plans. The nurse informed me that visiting hours were over.
   b. To acquaint (oneself) with knowledge of a subject.
2. To give form or character to; imbue with a quality or an essence: “A society's strength is measured by . . . its ability to inform a future generation with its moral standards” (Vanity Fair).
3. To be a pervasive presence in; animate: “It is this brash, backroom sensibility that informs his work as a novelist” (Jeff Shear).
4. Obsolete To form (the mind or character) by teaching or training.

1. To give or provide information.
2. To disclose confidential or incriminating information to an authority: The defendant informed against the other members of the ring.