earwig

n. [ AS. eárwicga; eáre ear + wicga beetle, worm: cf. Prov. E. erri-wiggle. ] 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. [ 1913 Webster + PJC ]

2. (Zoöl.) In America, any small chilopodous myriapod, esp. of the genus Geophilus. See Geophilus [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ Both insects are so called from the supposition that they creep into the human ear. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. A whisperer of insinuations; a secret counselor. Johnson. [ 1913 Webster ]