English wikipedia claims that: "The name earwig comes from the appearance of the hindwings, which are unique in their resemblance to human ears when unfolded. The species name of the common earwig, auricularia, is a specific reference to this feature". However, the Russia wikipedia proposes connection to a folk belief: "The name of the insect refers to an old belief that the earwig can get into the ear of a sleeping person and gnaw through the eardrum. Interestingly, the same explanation is given not only to the Russian, but also to the English-language name of the insect - earwig. The insect really chooses secluded places for rest, but cases of finding them in ears and other human organs are practically unknown and unlikely. English-speaking sources believe that it is very likely that the original word ear-wing has been shifted to indicate the unusual shape of the insect's back wing, which resembles an auricle."