grapple

GRAP'PLE, v.t.

1. To seize; to lay fast hold on, either with the hands or with hooks. We say, a man grapples his antagonist, or a ship grapples another ship.

2. To fasten; to fix, as the mind or heart. [Not in use.]

GRAP'PLE, v.i. To seize; to contend in close fight, as wrestlers.

To grapple with, to contend with, to struggle with successfully.

GRAP'PLE, n. A seizing; close hug in contest; the wrestler's hold.

1. Close fight.

2. A hook or iron instrument by which one ship fastens on another.