Why are earwigs so called?

Question

And can they get stuck in our ears?

Answer 1

The name "earwig" is generally said to originate from an old European belief that earwigs crawl into people's ears and lay eggs in the brain. This etymology is given by the Oxford English Dictionary, which states unequivocally that the name is derived from Old English éare, "ear", and wicga, "insect", "from the notion that it penetrates into the head through the ear." Earwigs do tend to prefer being in hidden places, and this etymology parallels the unambiguous French name perce-oreille ("ear piercer"). Another hypothesis is that the word comes from the Late Latin auricula, owing to the ancient use of pulverized earwigs as medicine to treat diseases of the ear. A third explanation is that it is an alteration of "ear-wing", after the shape of the hind wings when unfolded.

Answer 2

Earwigs are abundant in Texas and are a nuisance when they invade homes. They are rarely harmful to man, but have large, pincher-like abdominal appendages called forceps, which present a formidable appearance. Earwigs have flattened bodies and can enter homes through very small cracks. However, they are accidental invaders and do not reproduce indoors.

A few earwig species cause some damage by feeding on crops and ornamental plants but most play a beneficial role by feeding on other insects. Some species emit a foul odor. However, the most common complaint against the earwig is its mere presence in homes and apartments.

********Its name comes from a European superstition that the insect would enter the ear of a sleeping person and bore into the brain.

Answer 3

It comes from Old English, from eare ear + wicga earwig. The insect was once thought to crawl into the human ear - but it doesn't!! No, they won't get stuck in anyone's ear.

Answer 4

Earwigs are actually vegatarians, why would they want to go in our ears they are not meant to go in our ears. Maybe you should look on the internet and find out what earwigs actually and do and where they live and if they get stuck in ears. What a joke

Answer 5

I was told by a roofer that they get in your ears and dig through causing severe bleeding and damage. If you know they are in your ear you should flush with rubbing alcohol and get emergency assistance immediately. I've never had one in my ear, but they look like they would do that!!!

Answer 6

they crawl into your ear's and get stuck and die in there

Answer 7

they climb in your ears. what they do i dont know. but i dont want to know!