Earwig

earwig
    n 1: any of numerous insects of the order Dermaptera having
         elongate bodies and slender many-jointed antennae and a
         pair of large pincers at the rear of the abdomen
    

Earwig \Ear"wig`\ ([=e]r"w[i^]g`), n. [AS. e['a]rwicga; e['a]re
   ear + wicga beetle, worm: cf. Prov. E. erri-wiggle.]
   1. (Zo["o]l.) Any insect of the genus {Forficula} and related
      genera, belonging to the order {Dermaptera} (formerly
      {Euplexoptera}). They have elongated bodies and a
      prominent pair of curved pincers at the rear of their
      abdomen.
      [1913 Webster + PJC]

   2. (Zo["o]l.) In America, any small chilopodous myriapod,
      esp. of the genus {Geophilus}. See {Geophilus}
      [1913 Webster]

   Note: Both insects are so called from the supposition that
         they creep into the human ear.
         [1913 Webster]

   3. A whisperer of insinuations; a secret counselor.
      --Johnson.
      [1913 Webster]
    

Earwig \Ear"wig`\ ([=e]r"w[i^]g`), v. t. [imp. & p. p.
   {Earwigged} ([=e]r"w[i^]gd`); p. pr. & vb. n. {Earwigging}
   ([=e]r"w[i^]g*g[i^]ng).]
   To influence, or attempt to influence, by whispered
   insinuations or private talk. "No longer was he earwigged by
   the Lord Cravens." --Lord Campbell.
   [1913 Webster]