earwig
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈɪərwɪg/
KK: /ˈɪrˌwɪg/
noun
Definition
A type of insect that has long, slender body and pincers at the back, often found in gardens and under rocks.
Example
I found an earwig hiding under a flower pot in the garden.
Conversation
Did you see that strange bug in the garden yesterday?
Yeah, I think it was an earwig!
I've never seen one up close before.
They're kind of creepy, but interesting, right?
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
insect
bug
pincer
Antonyms
mammal
bird
reptile
transitive verb
Definition
To try to persuade someone secretly or through persistent conversation.
Example
He tried to earwig her into changing her mind about the project.
Tense Forms
Past: earwigged
Past Participle: earwigged
Conversation
I heard you were trying to earwig your boss into giving you a raise.
Yeah, I thought if I talked to him about my recent projects, it might help.
That sounds smart! Do you think he’ll be receptive to your approach?
Root Explanation
The word 'earwig' comes from Old English 'earwicga', where 'ear' (meaning ear) and 'wicga' (meaning insect or bug) combine. The name likely refers to the insect's habit of crawling into ears, although this is more myth than fact.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'ear' combined with 'bug' to remember that an earwig is an insect that is often associated with crawling into ears.
Visually Confused Words
earing
clearwing