grapple
1grap·ple
noun \ˈgra-pəl\Definition of GRAPPLE
1
a : the act or an instance of grappling b : a hand-to-hand struggle c : a contest for superiority or mastery
2
: a bucket similar to a clamshell but usually having more jaws
Examples of GRAPPLE
- <was simply unable to break my opponent's viselike grapple and lost the wrestling match>
- <after a grapple with his conscience, he confessed to having an affair>
Origin of GRAPPLE
Middle English grappel grappling hook, from Old French *grappelle, diminutive of grape hook — more at grape
First Known Use: 1601
Other Civil Engineering Terms
2grapple
verbgrap·pledgrap·pling \ˈgra-p(ə-)liŋ\
Definition of GRAPPLE
transitive verb
1
: to seize with or as if with a grapple
2
: to come to grips with : wrestle
3
: to bind closely
intransitive verb
1
: to make a ship fast with a grappling hook
2
: to come to grips
3
: to use a grapple
— grap·pler \-p(ə-)lər\ noun
Examples of GRAPPLE
- <two sumo wrestlers grappling like a pair of mammoth bears>
- <a crane grappled the sunken boat and hoisted it above water>
First Known Use of GRAPPLE
1530
Rhymes with GRAPPLE
Learn More About GRAPPLE
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Next Word in the Dictionary: grapple dredge
Previous Word in the Dictionary: grappier cement
All Words Near: grapple
Previous Word in the Dictionary: grappier cement
All Words Near: grapple
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