Used as a verb, earwig means to listen in on someone else’s conversation when you’ve got no invite, usually while pretending you’re just scrolling your phone. It’s basically eavesdropping with added cheek and a bit of nosy pride. Perfect for buses, pubs, or paper-thin flats, then acting all innocent when you’re caught.
"Oi, stop earwigging, yeah? I’m trying to book the holiday. Next thing I know you’re telling Mum my budget like you paid it."