WordWeight : Weighing the Words

Pronunciation : Ear"wig`
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [AS. e?rwicga; e?re ear + wicga beetle, worm: cf. Prov. E. erri-wiggle.]
Definition : 1. (Zo?l.)

Defn: Any insect of the genus Forticula and related genera, belonging to the order Euplexoptera.

2. (Zo?l.)

Defn: In America, any small chilopodous myriapod, esp. of the genus Geophilus.

Note: Both insects are so called from the supposition that they creep into the human ear.

3. A whisperer of insinuations; a secret counselor. Johnson.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913

Pronunciation : Ear"wig`
Part of Speech : v.
Definition : Defn: To influence, or attempt to influence, by whispered insinuations or private talk. "No longer was he earwigged by the Lord Cravens." Lord Campbell.

t. [imp. & p. p. Earwigged; p. pr. & vb. n. Earwigging.]
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913