Earwig
Earwig (ēr"wig`) , noun
[Anglo-Saxon eárwicga; eáre ear + wicga beetle, worm: compare Prov. English erri-wiggle.]
1.
(Zoology) 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.
2.
(Zoology) In America, any small chilopodous myriapod, esp. of the genus Geophilus. See Geophilus
Both insects are so called from the supposition that they creep into the human ear.
3.
A whisperer of insinuations; a secret counselor. — Johnson
Earwig (ēr"wig`) , transitive verb
To influence, or attempt to influence, by whispered insinuations or private talk.
No longer was he earwigged by the Lord Cravens.