grapple

²grapple

verb

grap·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

1. <two sumo wrestlers grappling like a pair of mammoth bears>
2. <a crane grappled the sunken boat and hoisted it above water>

First Known Use of GRAPPLE

1530

Related to GRAPPLE

Synonyms: wrestle, rassle, scuffle, tussle

Antonyms: miss

Related Words: battle, clash (with), combat, contend, duel, fight, war (against); bash, batter, beat, buffet, hit, punch, slug, strike; box, spar; brawl, skirmish

Near Antonyms: discharge, free, liberate, release; drop, loosen, unhand

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Rhymes with GRAPPLE

dapple