What is gauntlet definition?

Gauntlet is a noun that refers to a protective glove worn as a part of armor or by a worker as a shield against injury. This word is also used to describe a challenge or trial that someone must endure, usually in the form of a series of difficult or dangerous tests or tasks. In this sense, "to run the gauntlet" means to face a difficult situation head-on, with little chance of success. The word gauntlet originated from the Old French word "gantelet," meaning "a small glove," which is a diminutive form of "gant," meaning "glove."