grappling iron

noun

1. a grapnel.

grappling iron

noun

1. a grapnel, esp one used for securing ships

Word History and Origins

Origin of grappling iron¹

First recorded in 1530–40

Example Sentences

The grappling irons were thrown; the two hulls came together; the American boarders poured over her bulwarks, pike and cutlass in hand, ready for a fight.

From Project Gutenberg

A grappling iron was fastened for an anchor on to the end of the rope, a fresh chain of men was formed, and it was cast into the impenetrably shrouded abyss.

From Project Gutenberg

The ones from Miura cattle farm have horns like grappling irons.

From BBC

Little had I imagined how difficult it would be to move the grappling iron, so heavy was the great length of rope.

From Project Gutenberg

When the Carthaginian came up to ram or shear the oars of the Roman, huge grappling irons seized him and the Roman soldiers swarmed aboard him.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

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