Definition of grapnel Grapnel

grap•nel

We found 8 definitions of grapnel from 6 different sources.

What does grapnel mean?

Noun Plural: grapnels
grapnel - a tool consisting of several hooks for grasping and holding; often thrown with a rope
		grapple, grappler, grappling hook, grappling iron
		tool an implement used in the practice of a vocation
		crampon, crampoon an iron spike attached to the shoe to prevent slipping on ice when walking or climbing
grapnel - a light anchor for small boats
		grapnel anchor

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grapnel (Noun)
A small anchor, having more than two flukes, used for anchoring a small vessel.
grapnel (Noun)
A grappling iron .

grapnel (n.)
A small anchor, with four or five flukes or claws, used to hold boats or small vessels; hence, any instrument designed to grapple or hold; a grappling iron; a grab; -- written also grapline, and crapnel.

grapnel
grap′nel, n. a small anchor with several claws or arms: a grappling-iron. [Fr. grappin—grappe, a hook, with dim. suff. -el.]

grapnel
A sort of small anchor for boats, having a ring at one end, and four palmed claws at the other.--Fire grapnel. Resembling the former, but its flukes are furnished with strong fish-hook barbs on their points, usually fixed by a chain on the yard-arms of a ship, to grapple any adversary whom she intends to board, and particularly requisite in fire-ships. Also, used to grapple ships on fire, in order to tow them away from injuring other vessels.