grapple grapple /ˈgræpəl/

noun

1. The act of engaging in close hand-to-hand combat  ( grapple , hand-to-hand struggle , wrestle , grappling , wrestling )
   the act of engaging in close hand-to-hand combat
    They had a fierce wrestle
   they had a fierce wrestle
    We watched his grappling and wrestling with the bully
   we watched his grappling and wrestling with the bully
   
   
2. A dredging bucket with hinges like the shell of a clam  ( clamshell , grapple )
   a dredging bucket with hinges like the shell of a clam
   
3. A tool consisting of several hooks for grasping and holding; often thrown with a rope  ( grapnel , grapple , grappler , grappling hook , grappling iron )
   a tool consisting of several hooks for grasping and holding; often thrown with a rope
   
   

verb

1. () Succeed in doing, achieving, or producing (something) with the limited or inadequate means available  ( contend , make do , make out , cope , deal , get by , grapple , manage )
   succeed in doing, achieving, or producing (something) with the limited or inadequate means available
    We got by on just a gallon of gas
   We got by on just a gallon of gas
    They made do on half a loaf of bread every day
   They made do on half a loaf of bread every day
   
2. () To grip or seize, as in a wrestling match  ( grapple , grip )
   to grip or seize, as in a wrestling match
    The two men grappled with each other for several minutes
   the two men grappled with each other for several minutes