grapnel
pronunciation
How to pronounce grapnel in British English:
UK ['græpnəl]
How to pronounce grapnel in American English:
US ['græpnəl]
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- Noun:
- a tool consisting of several hooks for grasping and holding; often thrown with a rope
- a light anchor for small boats
Word Origin
- grapnel
- grapnel: see grape
- grapnel (n.)
- "small hook," especially one fixed on a rope and thrown for seizing and holding, late 14c., grapenel, from an assumed Anglo-French diminutive of grapon, from Old French grapil, grapin "hook," diminutive of grape "hook" (see grape). Earlier form was grapel (compare grapple (n.)).