grappling iron

American  

noun

1. a grapnel.

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grappling iron British  

noun

1. a grapnel, esp one used for securing ships

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Etymology

Origin of grappling iron

First recorded in 1530–40

Example Sentences

The cable car must close its grappling iron and grip the cable before progress can be made.

From The Jericho Road by Adkins, W. Bion

At that instant I suddenly arose and threw the grappling iron.

From Tales of the Fish Patrol by Varian, George

Throwing a grappling iron upon this ship, Cymon drew it close to his own.

From The World's Greatest Books — Volume 01 — Fiction by Hammerton, John Alexander, Sir

A grappling iron was fastened for an anchor on to the end of the rope, a fresh chain of men was formed, and it was cast into the impenetrably shrouded abyss.

From The Vulture Maiden [Die Geier-Wally.] by Hillern, Wilhelmine von

Before we began to descend at full speed the grappling iron had been pitched over, and, fortunately, got a firm hold in a ridge of the ploughed land.

From Faces and Places by Lucy, Henry W. (Henry William), Sir

Related Words

• mainstay