grapnel

[ grap-nl ]

noun

1. a device consisting essentially of one or more hooks or clamps, for grasping or holding something; grapple; grappling iron.
2. a small anchor with three or more flukes, used for grappling or dragging or for anchoring a small boat, as a skiff.

grapnel

/ ˈɡræpnəl /

noun

1. a device with a multiple hook at one end and attached to a rope, which is thrown or hooked over a firm mooring to secure an object attached to the other end of the rope
2. a light anchor for small boats

Word History and Origins

Origin of grapnel¹

1325–75; Middle English grapnel ( l ), diminutive of Old French grapin, diminutive of grape hook, grape

Word History and Origins

Origin of grapnel¹

C14: from Old French grapin a little hook, from grape a hook; see grape

Example Sentences

(←) n general term for fish net, grapnel dragged along the bottom.

From Project Gutenberg

They slept fairly and, at daybreak, got up the grapnel and hoisted the sail again.

From Project Gutenberg

Or, by the accidental use of a grapnel, they would chance to fish up some bottles of valuable "bay-oil" from the bottom.

From Project Gutenberg

I found landing impracticable and therefore came to a grapnel, in hopes of their coming to us, for we had passed several fires.

From Project Gutenberg

Our grapnel was foul but Providence here assisted us; the fluke broke and we got to our oars and pulled to sea.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• constraint
• grasp
• restraint