'Earwig' definitions:

Definition of 'earwig'

(from WordNet)
noun
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

Definition of 'Earwig'

From: GCIDE
  • 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]

Definition of 'Earwig'

From: GCIDE
  • 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]

Words containing 'Earwig'