earwig

Meanings

Noun

• 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.
• One who whispers insinuations; a secret counsellor.
• A flatterer.

Verb

• To fill the mind of with prejudice by insinuations.
• To attempt to influence by persistent confidential argument or talk.
• To eavesdrop.
• To eavesdrop on.

Related

Similar words

• forkytail , pincher bug

Origin

• From Middle English erwigge, from Old English ēarwicga.