earwig

Meaning

Noun

1. Any of various insects of the order Dermaptera that have elongated bodies, large membranous wings folded underneath short leathery forewings and a pair of large pincers protruding from the rear of the abdomen.
2. One who whispers insinuations; a secret counsellor.
3. A flatterer.

Verb

1. (transitive) To fill the mind of with prejudice by insinuations.
2. (transitive) To attempt to influence by persistent confidential argument or talk.
3. (UK, intransitive, slang) To eavesdrop.
4. (UK, slang, transitive) To eavesdrop on.

Synonyms

calumniate

centipede

tendril

common European earwig

pruning scissors

Translations

Ohrwurm

tijereta

perce-oreille

forficule

oorworm

forbicina

forfecchia

ψαλίδα

Forficula auricularia

Ohrenkriecher

δερματόπτερα

Ohrkneifer

tisoreta

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ˈɪə(ɹ)wɪɡ/

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English: erwigge

Inherited from Old English: ēarwicga

In summary

From Middle English erwigge, from Old English ēarwicga, from ēare (“ear”) + wicga (“insect”), so named from the appearance of the hindwings, which are unique in their resemblance to human ears when unfolded.