Ear"wig` (?), n. ear + wicga beetle, worm: cf. Prov. E. erri-wiggle.]
1. Zool.
Any insect of the genus Forticula and related genera, belonging to the order Euplexoptera.
2. Zool.
In America, any small chilopodous myriapod, esp. of the genus Geophilus.
Both insects are so called from the supposition that they creep into the human ear.
3.
A whisperer of insinuations; a secret counselor.
Johnson.
© Webster 1913.
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."
Lord Campbell.
© Webster 1913.