# earwig

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈɪə(ɹ)wɪɡ/ · frequency rank #87,240

## Definitions
1. 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.
2. One who whispers insinuations; a secret counsellor.
3. A flatterer.

## Etymology
From Middle English erwigge, from Old English ēarwicga, from ēare (“ear”) + wicga (“insect”), so named from the appearance of the hindwings, which are unique in their resemblance to human ears when unfolded.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/earwig