Ear·wig n.
  1. Zoöl. 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.
  2. Zoöl. 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.
  Ear·wig v. t. [imp. & p. p. Earwigged p. pr. & vb. n. Earwigging ] To influence, or attempt to influence, by whispered insinuations or private talk. “No longer was he earwigged by the Lord Cravens.”
  ◄ ►
  earwig
       n : 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