grapple

[ grap-uhl ]

verb (used without object)

, grap·pled, grap·pling.

1. to hold or make fast to something, as with a grapple.
2. to use a grapple.
3. to seize another, or each other, in a firm grip, as in wrestling; clinch.
4. to engage in a struggle or close encounter (usually followed by with ):

   He was grappling with a boy twice his size.

5. to try to overcome or deal (usually followed by with ):

   to grapple with a problem.

   Synonyms: tussle, cope, wrestle, contend, struggle

verb (used with object)

, grap·pled, grap·pling.

1. to seize, hold, or fasten with or as with a grapple.
2. to seize in a grip, take hold of:

   The thug grappled him around the neck.

noun

1. a hook or an iron instrument by which one thing, as a ship, fastens onto another; grapnel.
2. a seizing or gripping.
3. a grip or close hold in wrestling or hand-to-hand fighting.
4. a close, hand-to-hand fight.

grapple

/ ˈɡræpəl /

verb

1. to come to grips with (one or more persons), esp to struggle in hand-to-hand combat
2. intrfoll bywith to cope or contend

   to grapple with a financial problem

3. tr to secure with a grapple

noun

1. any form of hook or metal instrument by which something is secured, such as a grapnel
2. 1. the act of gripping or seizing, as in wrestling
   2. a grip or hold
3. a contest of grappling, esp a wrestling match

Derived Forms

• ˈgrappler, noun

Other Words From

• grappler noun
• inter·grapple verb intergrappled intergrappling
• un·grappled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of grapple¹

1520–30; apparently a frequentative of Old English gegrǣppian to seize; associated with grapnel

Word History and Origins

Origin of grapple¹

C16: from Old French grappelle a little hook, from grape hook; see grapnel

Example Sentences

The $7-billion spinoff comes as traditional media companies grapple with the diminishing value of what was once an economic pillar of the entertainment businesses.

From Los Angeles Times

But despite her success, including four Grammy Awards and a Brit for best international artist, she confessed that she "grapples" with fame.

From BBC

The company must also grapple with concerns about children’s screen time.

From Los Angeles Times

Since taking office, he’s grappled with many of the same problems that bedeviled prior sheriffs: poor jail conditions, sprawling consent decrees, allegations about deputy gangs and persistent staffing woes.

From Los Angeles Times

School districts across the state and country have grappled with admissions criteria policies for honors and advanced programs.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• confront
• contend
• cope
• deal with