gauntlet

noun (1)

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gaunt·let | \ ˈgȯnt-lət

, ˈgänt- \

variants: or less commonly gantlet

Definition of gauntlet

(Entry 1 of 2)

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

gauntlet

noun (2)

variants: or less commonly gantlet

Definition of gauntlet (Entry 2 of 2)

1a : a double file of men facing each other and armed with clubs or other weapons with which to strike at an individual who is made to run between them —used with run

b : a line, series, or assemblage especially : one that poses some sort of ordeal a gauntlet of autograph-seekers

2 : a severe trial : ordeal ran the gauntlet of criticism and censure

Other Words from gauntlet Synonyms Did you know? Phrases Containing gauntlet Learn More About gauntlet

Did you know?

Gauntlet comes from Middle French gantelet, the diminutive of gant, meaning "glove." (The gauntlet that means "severe trial," "ordeal," or "double file of armed men" is a different word that originates from Swedish gata, meaning "lane" or "way.") To throw down the gauntlet is to issue an open challenge, while to pick up the gauntlet is to accept an open challenge. These figurative phrases come from the conventions of medieval combat. The gauntlet was the glove of a suit of armor. To challenge someone to combat, a knight would throw his glove at another knight's feet. The second knight would take it up if he intended to accept the challenge, in which case a jousting match might ensue.

History and Etymology for gauntlet

Noun (1)

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

Noun (2)

altered from gantelope, apparently by assimilation to gauntlet entry 1