First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1earwig
noun ear·wig \-ˌwig\
: an insect that has long, thin feelers and two curved, pointed parts at the end of the body
Full Definition of EARWIG
: any of numerous insects (order Dermaptera) having slender many-jointed antennae and a pair of cerci resembling forceps at the end of the body
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Origin of EARWIG
Middle English erwigge, from Old English ēarwicga, from ēare ear + wicga insect
2earwig
verb
ear·wiggedear·wig·ging
Definition of EARWIG
transitive verb
: to annoy or attempt to influence by private talk
First Known Use of EARWIG
1837
EARWIGGING Defined for Kids
earwig
noun ear·wig \ˈir-ˌwig\
Definition of EARWIG for Kids
: an insect with long slender feelers and a part at the end of its body that pinches and is used for self-defense
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