1. small anchors with multiple hooks or claws, used to grip or hold onto something
Usage: nautical; plural of grapnel

Examples

• The sailors threw grapnels over the side to secure the boat to the dock.
• Mountain climbers use grapnels to anchor their ropes on rocky surfaces.
• The ship’s crew deployed several grapnels to prevent drifting in the strong current.
• Pirates in old stories used grapnels to board enemy vessels.
• The rescue team lowered grapnels to retrieve equipment from the water.
• Small fishing boats often carry grapnels as emergency anchors.