Definition

1. Noun:
   • A light anchor for small boats: A grapnel anchor is a type of anchor characterized by multiple hooks or claws (typically four or five). It is designed to be lightweight and is primarily used for securing small vessels like dinghies, canoes, or small sailboats. Its claw-like design allows it to grip onto rocks, reefs, or other irregular surfaces on the seabed.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We used a grapnel anchor to secure the dinghy while we went ashore.
  • For our small fishing boat, a grapnel anchor is perfectly sufficient in these calm waters.
  • The grapnel anchor got a good hold on the rocky bottom.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Context: In nautical terminology, a grapnel anchor is often contrasted with heavier, more permanent anchors like plow or fluke anchors. It is valued for its compactness and ease of retrieval.
  • The grapnel anchor is the preferred choice for temporary mooring in non-muddy conditions.

Variants and Related Words

• Grapnel (noun): The general term for a device with multiple hooks, used for grasping or anchoring. A grapnel anchor is a specific application of a grapnel.
  • The rescue team threw a grapnel to secure the line.
• Kedge anchor (noun): Another type of lightweight anchor, often used for similar purposes but with a different design (typically with two flukes). It is sometimes used synonymously in casual contexts.

Synonyms

• Lightweight anchor: A general term for anchors designed for small boats.
• Small boat anchor: A descriptive synonym emphasizing its intended use.
• Hook anchor: An informal term referencing its hooked claws.

Related Phrases

• To set a grapnel: The action of deploying the anchor so it grips the seabed.
  • Make sure to set the grapnel properly before leaving the boat unattended.
• To weigh a grapnel: The action of pulling up or retrieving the anchor.
  • We weighed the grapnel and set sail at dawn.

Noun

1. a light anchor for small boats