from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Grapple \Grap"ple\, n. [See Grapple, v. t., and cf. Crapple.]
1. A seizing or seizure; close hug in contest; the wrestler's
hold. --Milton.
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2.
(a) An instrument, usually with hinged claws, for seizing
and holding fast to an object; a grab.
(b) (Naut.) A grappling iron.
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The iron hooks and grapples keen. --Spenser.
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{Grapple plant} (Bot.), a South African herb ({Herpagophytum
leptocarpum}) having the woody fruits armed with long
hooked or barbed thorns by which they adhere to cattle,
causing intense annoyance.
{Grapple shot} (Life-saving Service), a projectile, to which
are attached hinged claws to catch in a ship's rigging or
to hold in the ground; -- called also {anchor shot}.
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