·p.pr. & ·vb.n. of Grapple.
II. Grappling ·noun A grapple; a struggle. A match for yards in fight, in grappling for the bear.
III. Grappling ·noun A laying fast hold of; also, that by which anything is seized and held, a grapnel.
Handcuffs. ...
Dictionary of The Vulgar Tongue by Francis Grose