n. pl. [ F. crampon, fr. OHG. chramph crooked; akin to G. krampf cramp. See Cramp, n., and cf. Crampon. ] 1. A clutch formed of hooked pieces of iron, like double calipers, for raising stones, lumber, blocks of ice, etc. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Iron instruments with sharp points, worn on the shoes to assist in gaining or keeping a foothold. [ 1913 Webster ]

‖n. [ F. See Crampoons. ] 1. (Bot.) An aërial rootlet for support in climbing, as of ivy. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. a device with pointed metal projections worn over the shoes to provide traction when walking over ice, or in mountaineering; -- usually used in the plural. [ PJC ]

3. same as crampoon. [ PJC ]

a. [ F. cramponné. See Crampoons. ] (Her.) Having a cramp or square piece at the end; -- said of a cross so furnished. [ 1913 Webster ]