grapnel
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.


grap·nel

noun \ˈgrap-nəl\

Definition of GRAPNEL

: 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

Origin of GRAPNEL

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

Rhymes with GRAPNEL

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: grappa
Previous Word in the Dictionary: -graphy
All Words Near: grapnel

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up grapnel? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Name That Thing

Take Our 10-Question Quiz

Get Our Free Apps
Voice Search, Favorites,
Word of the Day, and More
Join Us on FB & Twitter
Get the Word of the Day and More