French translation of earwig is 
perce-oreille

Meaning of "earwig" in English

The term "earwig" refers to an insect belonging to the order Dermaptera. This small creature is easily recognized by its elongated body and distinctive pincers or forceps protruding from the rear of its abdomen. Earwigs are nocturnal and commonly found in moist, shaded environments where they feed on a variety of plants and decaying organic matter. They are often the subject of folklore due to the mistaken belief that they crawl into people's ears. Despite this myth, earwigs are generally harmless to humans.

Meaning of "perce-oreille" in French

The French word "perce-oreille" translates to "earwig" in English and describes a similar insect with characteristic forceps at the end of its abdomen. In French folklore, much like in English, there is a myth suggesting that these insects can crawl into human ears. However, perce-oreilles are harmless, focusing their diet mostly on plants and decomposing materials. They thrive in damp environments and are known for their nocturnal activity, often hiding under leaves, stones, and bark during the day.

Pronunciation of "earwig" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [ˈɪəwɪɡ]

Pronunciation Variations: In American English, "earwig" is typically pronounced with a clear 'r' sound, whereas in some British accents, the 'r' might be less pronounced, sounding closer to "eah-wig."

Pronunciation of "perce-oreille" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [pɛʁs ɔʁɛj]

Pronunciation Variations: French speakers from different regions may pronounce "perce-oreille" with slight differences in the vowel sounds. For instance, in the south of France, the final 'eille' may be pronounced with a more open 'e' sound.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. I found an earwig in the garden this morning. (J'ai trouvé un perce-oreille dans le jardin ce matin.)
2. Earwigs are often seen under stones and logs. (Les perce-oreilles sont souvent vus sous les pierres et les bûches.)
3. The earwig's pincers are used for defense. (Les pinces du perce-oreille sont utilisées pour se défendre.)
4. Some people mistakenly fear that earwigs crawl into their ears. (Certaines personnes ont peur à tort que les perce-oreilles rampent dans leurs oreilles.)
5. An earwig can be beneficial in controlling garden pests. (Un perce-oreille peut être bénéfique pour contrôler les ravageurs du jardin.)
6. My grandmother used to tell stories about earwigs. (Ma grand-mère avait l'habitude de raconter des histoires sur les perce-oreilles.)
7. Earwigs are attracted to light at night. (Les perce-oreilles sont attirés par la lumière la nuit.)
8. I removed an earwig from the patio umbrella. (J'ai retiré un perce-oreille du parasol de la terrasse.)
9. Earwigs can pinch but are mostly harmless. (Les perce-oreilles peuvent pincer mais sont généralement inoffensifs.)
10. Gardeners often find earwigs in flower pots. (Les jardiniers trouvent souvent des perce-oreilles dans les pots de fleurs.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "earwig" in English

Synonyms: -

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: insect, bug, critter, pest, beetle, flea, ant, termite, wasp

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "perce-oreille" in French

Synonyms: -

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: insecte, coléoptère, bestiole, ravageur, punaise, fourmi, termite, guêpe

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