Most earwigs range in size from 5 to 25 millimeters (0.2 to 1 inch) in length. The largest species, the giant earwig (Labidura herculeana), can reach up to 50 millimeters (2 inches) in length.
Earwigs have elongated bodies with two pairs of wings. The front wings are hardened and form protective covers for the hind wings, which are membranous and used for flight. They have a distinctive forceps-like cerci at the end of their abdomens.