Earwigging: meaning, definitions and examples
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earwigging
[ ˈɪrˌwɪɡɪŋ ]
sneaky listening
Earwigging refers to the act of secretly listening to a conversation that one is not part of. It often implies a stealthy or eavesdropping behavior that can be considered intrusive.
Synonyms
eavesdrop, listen in, overhear
Examples of usage
- He was earwigging on their conversation about the surprise party.
- I caught her earwigging while I discussed my plans with a friend.
- Earwigging is not polite, but it happens often at busy cafes.
- She accidentally earwigged the couple arguing at the next table.
Translations
Translations of the word "earwigging" in other languages:
🇵🇹 escuta clandestina
🇮🇳 गुप्त सुनना
🇩🇪 lauschen
🇮🇩 mendengarkan diam-diam
🇺🇦 підслуховування
🇵🇱 podsłuchiwanie
🇯🇵 盗み聞き (ぬすみぎき)
🇫🇷 écoute clandestine
🇪🇸 escucha clandestina
🇹🇷 gizlice dinlemek
🇰🇷 몰래 듣기
🇸🇦 الاستماع السري
🇨🇿 poslouchání
🇸🇰 odpočúvanie
🇨🇳 偷听 (tōutīng)
🇸🇮 prisluškovanje
🇮🇸 hlusta á laum
🇰🇿 жасырын тыңдау
🇬🇪 სმენითი
🇦🇿 qulaq asmaq
🇲🇽 escucha clandestina
Etymology
The term 'earwigging' originated from the late 19th century, deriving from the Old English 'ear' which means 'ear' and 'wig' which comes from the word 'wiggen', an Old English term meaning 'to move or to be active'. Historically, the word 'earwig' also refers to a type of insect known for its pinching hind appendages, metaphorically associating the concept of stealth. The evolution of the term has primarily focused on the auditory aspect of 'ear' combined with the notion of being active and secretive in listening. Over time, 'earwigging' became popularized in British vernacular to describe the act of eavesdropping in a more playful or less serious context.