grapnel

n. 1 device with iron claws, for dragging or grasping. 2 small anchor with several flukes. [french grapon: related to *grape]

n. 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.