grapnel

/ˈɡræpnəl/

From Middle English grapnel, from Anglo-Norman, from Old French grapil, grapin. Compare modern French grappin.

1(nautical) A small anchor, having more than two flukes, used for anchoring a small vessel.
2A device with a multiple hook at one end and attached to a rope, which is thrown or hooked over a firm mooring to secure an object attached to the other end of the rope.
3(nautical) A grappling iron.
4figurativeSomething likened to a grapnel, especially something used to search, grasp, or retrieve.