Main Entry: ¹gaunt·let

Variant(s): also gant·let \ˈgȯnt-lət, ˈgänt-\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French gantelet, diminutive of gant glove, from Old French, of Germanic origin; akin to Middle Dutch want glove, Old Norse vǫttr

Date: 15th century

1 : a glove worn with medieval armor to protect the hand
2 : any of various protective gloves used especially in industry
3 : an open challenge (as to combat) —used in phrases like throw down the gauntlet
4 : a dress glove extending above the wrist

— gaunt·let·ed \-lə-təd\ adjective