[grap.ple] n [OF grappelle, dim. of grape hook--more at grape] (1601) 1 a: the act or an instance of grappling b: a hand-to-hand struggle c: a contest for superiority or mastery
2: a bucket similar to a clamshell but usu. having more jaws
[2]grapple vb grap.pled ; grap.pling vt (1530) 1: to seize with or as if with a grapple
2: to come to grips with: wrestle
3: to bind closely ~ vi 1: to make a ship fast with a grappling iron
2: to come to grips: wrestle
3: to use a grapple -- grap.pler n