a tool consisting of several hooks for grasping and holding; often thrown with a rope
source: WordNet 3.0
a light anchor for small boats
source: WordNet 3.0
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.