Definition for EAR-WIG

EAR-WIG, n. [Sax. ear-wigga, ear-wicga; ear and worm or grub.]

The popular name of certain species of Forficula, which are orthopterous insects of the family Cursoria. The English name was given from an ill founded notion that these animals creep into the ear and cause injury. In New England, this name is vulgarly given to a centiped.

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