Ear"wig` (?), n. [AS. eárwicga; eáre ear + wicga beetle, worm: cf. Prov. E. erri-wiggle.] 1. (Zoöl.) Any insect of the genus Forticula and related genera, belonging to the order Euplexoptera.

2. (Zoöl.) In America, any small chilopodous myriapod, esp. of the genus Geophilus.

&fist; Both insects are so called from the supposition that they creep into the human ear.

3. A whisperer of insinuations; a secret counselor. Johnson.

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.

• Any of various insects of the order Dermaptera that have elongated bodies, large membraneous wings folded underneath short leathery forewings and a pair of large pincers protruding from the rear of the abdomen.