grapeshot

American  

[greyp-shot] / ˈgreɪpˌʃɒt /

noun

1. a cluster of small cast-iron balls formerly used as a charge for a cannon.

---

grapeshot British  

/ ˈɡreɪpˌʃɒt /

noun

1. ammunition for cannons consisting of a canvas tube containing a cluster of small iron or lead balls that scatter after firing

---

Etymology

Origin of grapeshot

First recorded in 1740–50; grape + shot ¹

Example Sentences

Art Cullen, 59, acknowledges his editorials may be mere grapeshot to King’s bombast.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s good stuff, all that political and romantic intrigue, but most readers will doubtless be drawn by the whiff of grapeshot.

From Washington Post

“He would pick up something and say, ‘Oh yeah, I remember when I found this when I was 14,’ or ‘I found that stand of grapeshot right over in Terrell’s Battery,’” said Baas.

From Washington Times

Both grapeshot and canister shot are small metal balls fired as a cluster from a cannon, and having the effect of a shotgun, scattering projectiles over a large area.

From Washington Times

In her memoir, she described one colleague as "deserting at the first whiff of grapeshot".

From Reuters