tackle

noun

1. (countable, uncountable)A device for grasping an object and an attached means of moving it, as a rope and hook.
2. (countable, uncountable)A block and tackle.
3. (slang, uncountable)Clothing.
4. (uncountable)Equipment (rod, reel, line, lure, etc.) used when angling.
5. (broadly, informal, uncountable)Equipment, gear, gadgetry.

   “2004 June 24–30, "Jeff Gordon Never Gets Tired Of Seeing Face On Cheap Plastic Crap", The Onion, available in Embedded in America, →ISBN, page 193, ... an illuminated license-plate frame bearing his likeness, signature, and yellow number 24. "That there's a real nice piece of tackle. ..."”

6. (countable)A play where a player attempts to take control over the ball from an opponent, as in rugby or football.
7. (countable)A play where a defender brings the ball carrier to the ground.
8. (countable)Any instance in which one person intercepts another and forces them to the ground.
9. (countable, uncountable)An offensive line position between a guard and an end: offensive tackle; a person playing that position.
10. (countable, uncountable)A defensive position between two defensive ends: defensive tackle; a person playing that position.
11. (countable, slang, uncountable)The penis.

verb

1. To force a person to the ground with the weight of one's own body, usually by jumping on top or slamming one's weight into them.
2. To face or deal with, attempting to overcome or fight down.

   “The government's measures to tackle crime were insufficient.”

   “The work on Bridge 22, over Hemming Street, is being tackled first; it was started in January and should be finished by Whitsun.”

   “The shark was thought to represent nature at its most cruel, and only a few painters and writers felt the need to tackle such a powerful subject.”

3. To attempt to take away a ball.
4. To bring a ball carrier to the ground.
5. (Singapore, colloquial)To "hit on" or pursue a person that one is interested in.

   “"Singing is the oldest, most effective and productive way to tackle girls," asserted the 37-year-old, affectionately known as Ah Guan at Tan Chang Ren Music Station.”

   “It takes the form of a beautiful lady and tackles young and handsome men.”

   “Now, now, I know you guys are being excited but remember, your feelings play the most important role to tackle a girl.”

   “Kenneth Ma claims his secret to tackling girls lies in his new and improved skin condition.”