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

One look was enough to tell them it was from this craft that the grappling iron had been let down, and as the submarine drifted nearer the form of Hardley was seen on deck.

From Tom Swift and His Undersea Search, or, the Treasure on the Floor of the Atlantic by Appleton, Victor [pseud.]

"There's some sort of grappling iron, or cable with a hook on it, being lowered from the surface, and it's near the wreck," was the answer.

From Tom Swift and His Undersea Search, or, the Treasure on the Floor of the Atlantic by Appleton, Victor [pseud.]

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

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

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

Related Words

• mainstay