The Collaborative International Dictionary
Herpagophytum leptocarpum
Grapple \Grap"ple\, n. [See Grapple, v. t., and cf. Crapple.]
A seizing or seizure; close hug in contest; the wrestler's hold.
--Milton.An instrument, usually with hinged claws, for seizing and holding fast to an object; a grab.
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(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.