grapeshot

noun

grape·​shot ˈgrāp-ˌshät How to pronounce grapeshot (audio)
: an antipersonnel weapon consisting of a cluster of small iron balls shot from a cannon

Examples of grapeshot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Most of the asteroid would likely expand into fragments traveling on the same trajectory—a cosmic grapeshot. — Paul Sutter, Ars Technica, 10 May 2024 An entire round of grapeshot was also uncovered, complete with a rope still fastened around it, photos show. — Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1745, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of grapeshot was in 1745

Rhymes for grapeshot

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Browse Nearby Words

grape-seed oil
grapeshot
grapes of wrath
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Cite this Entry

“Grapeshot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grapeshot. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

grapeshot

noun
grape·​shot ˈgrāp-ˌshät How to pronounce grapeshot (audio)
: small iron balls formerly fired at short range from a cannon against people (as soldiers or rioters)

More from Merriam-Webster on grapeshot

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about grapeshot

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