grapnel
grapnel · grapnels
A small anchor, having more than two flukes, used for anchoring a small vesselA small anchor, having more than two flukes, used for anchoring a small vessel.
/ˈɡɹæpnəl/
Meaning
3 sensesA small anchor, having more than two flukes, used for anchoring a small vessel.
a light anchor for small boats
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.
A grappling iron.
Translations
1 languagesOrigin
From Middle English grapnel, from Anglo-Norman, from Old French grapil, grapin. Compare moFrom Middle English grapnel, from Anglo-Norman, from Old French grapil, grapin. Compare modern French grappin.
Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Forms
plural: grapnelsSynonyms
6 synonymsClose in meaning
- a light anchor for small boats:grapnel anchor
- a tool consisting of several hooks for grasping and holding; often thrown with a rope:grapplegrapplergrappling hookgrappling iron