grapple

(grăpˈəl)

1. a. An iron shaft with claws at one end, usually thrown by a rope and used for grasping and holding, especially one for drawing and holding an enemy ship alongside. Also called grapnel, grappling, grappling hook, grappling iron.
   b. Nautical See grapnel.
2. The act of grappling.
3. a. A struggle or contest in which the participants attempt to clutch or grip each other.
   b. A struggle for superiority or dominance.

1. To seize and hold, as with a grapple.
2. To seize firmly, as with the hands.

1. To hold onto something with or as if with a grapple.
2. To use a grapple or similar device, as for dragging.
3. To struggle, in or as if in wrestling: grappled with their consciences; grapple with the political realities of our time.

Related Forms:

• grapˈpler noun