gauntlet
noun (1)
gaunt·let
| \ ˈgȯnt-lət
, ˈgänt-\
, 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