grapnel

• POS: Noun
• HYPHEN: grap=nel

CIDE DICTIONARY

grapnel, n. [OE. grapenel, dim. fr. F. grappin the grapple of a ship; of German origin. See Grape.].

 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.  [1913 Webster]

OXFORD DICTIONARY

grapnel, n.
1 a device with iron claws, attached to a rope and used for dragging or grasping.
2 a small anchor with several flukes.

Etymology

ME f. AF f. OF grapon f. Gmc: cf. GRAPE

ROGET THESAURUS

grapnel

Refuge

N refuge, sanctuary, retreat, fastness, acropolis, keep, last resort, ward, prison, asylum, ark, home, refuge for the destitute, almshouse, hiding place, sanctum sanctorum, roadstead, anchorage, breakwater, mole, port, haven, harbor, harbor of refuge, seaport, pier, jetty, embankment, quay, covert, cover, shelter, screen, lee wall, wing, shield, umbrella, barrier, dashboard, dasher, wall, fort, anchor, kedge, grapnel, grappling iron, sheet anchor, killick, mainstay, support, cheek, ballast, jury mast, vent-peg, safety valve, blow-off valve, safety lamp, lightning rod, lightning conductor, safety belt, airbag, seat belt, antilock brakes, antiskid tires, snow tires, means of escape, lifeboat, lifejacket, life buoy, swimming belt, cork jacket, parachute, plank, steppingstone, emergency landing, safeguard, any port in a storm, bibere venenum in auro, valet anchora virtus.