From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.44 [gcide]:
Earwig \Ear"wig'\ ([=e]r"w[i^]g'), noun [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}
Note: Both insects are so called from the supposition that they creep into the human ear.
3. A whisperer of insinuations; a secret counselor. --Johnson.
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.44 [gcide]:
Earwig \Ear"wig'\ ([=e]r"w[i^]g'), verb (used with an object) [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.
From WordNet (r) 2.0 [wn]:
noun
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
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