Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - earwig

 I. noun  Etymology: Middle English erwigge, from Old English earwicga, from eare ear + wicga insect  Date: before 12th century any of numerous insects (order Dermaptera) having slender many-jointed antennae and a pair of cerci resembling forceps at the end of the body  II. transitive verb  (~ged; ~ging)  Date: 1837 to annoy or attempt to influence by private talk