Grap″ple, n. [See Grapple, v. t., and cf. Crapple.] 1. A seizing or seizure; close hug in contest; the wrestler's hold. Milton.
2. (a) An instrument, usually with hinged claws, for seizing and holding fast to an object; a grab. (b) (Naut.) A grappling iron.
The iron hooks and grapples keen. Spenser.
Grapple plant(Bot.), a South African herb (Herpagophytum leptocarpum) having the woody fruits armed with long hooked or barbed thorns by which they adhere to cattle, causing intense annoyance. — Grapple shot(Life-saving Service), a projectile, to which are attached hinged claws to catch in a ship's rigging or to hold in the ground; — called also anchor shot.