grapnel

noun

grap·​nel ˈgrap-nᵊl How to pronounce grapnel (audio)
: a small anchor with usually four or five flukes used especially to recover a sunken object or to anchor a small boat see anchor illustration

Examples of grapnel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The Seachoice grapnel anchor has a clevis link to attach the anchor rope. Ric Burnley, Field & Stream, 9 Jan. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'grapnel.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English grapenel, from Anglo-French grapinel, diminutive of Middle French grapin, diminutive of Old French grape hook, grape stalk, bunch of grapes — more at grape

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of grapnel was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near grapnel

Cite this Entry

“Grapnel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grapnel. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

grapnel

noun
grap·​nel ˈgrap-nᵊl How to pronounce grapnel (audio)
: a small anchor with pointed hooks or claws

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