gauntlet

noun (1)

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

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

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