grapnel

n. [ OE. grapenel, dim. fr. F. grappin the grapple of a ship; of German origin. See Grape. ] (Naut.) A small anchor, with four or five flukes or claws, used to hold boats or small vessels; hence, any instrument designed to grapple or hold; a grappling iron; a grab; -- written also grapline, and crapnel. [ 1913 Webster ]