grappling iron

American  

noun

1. a grapnel.

---

grappling iron British  

noun

1. a grapnel, esp one used for securing ships

---

Etymology

Origin of grappling iron

First recorded in 1530–40

Example Sentences

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

From Tales of the Fish Patrol by Varian, George

The lower end of each line dragged the bottom by means of a small grappling iron, and at the surface it was secured to the buoy–rope of a cork float.

From Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea by Walter, F. P.

He concluded he had been dreaming, but when about to leave the window he saw one of his fellow workmen running with the grappling iron.

From The Hero of the Humber or the History of the Late Mr. John Ellerthorpe by Woodcock, Henry

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.]

Related Words

• mainstay