Herpagophytum leptocarpum

Grapple Grap"ple, n. [See Grapple, v. t., and cf. Crapple.] 1. A seizing or seizure; close hug in contest; the wrestler's hold. --Milton. [1913 Webster]

2. (a) An instrument, usually with hinged claws, for seizing and holding fast to an object; a grab. (b) (Naut.) A grappling iron. [1913 Webster]

The iron hooks and grapples keen. --Spenser. [1913 Webster]

{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}. [1913 Webster]