grapnel

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun a tool consisting of several hooks for grasping and holding; often thrown with a rope
noun a light anchor for small boats

From Middle English grapnel, from Anglo-Norman, from Old French grapil, grapin. Compare modern French grappin.

Then we want a grapnel." — True to the Old Flag: A Tale of the American War of Independence, G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
Just as this distribution was made, the pirates cast their grapnel. — Great Pirate Stories, Unknown
One of the Dutchmen was burned, the other managed to throw off the grapnels. — When London Burned : a Story of Restoration Times and the Great Fire, G. A. (George Alfred) Henty

grapple, grappler, grappling hook, grappling iron

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