gauntlet (redirected from take up the gauntlet)

run the gauntlet 

1. Lit. to race, as a punishment, between parallel lines of men who thrash one as one runs. The knight was forced to doff his clothes and run the gauntlet.

2. and run the gauntlet of something Fig. to endure a series of problems, threats, or criticism. After the play, the director found himself running the gauntlet of questions and doubts about his ability.

See also: run

throw down the gauntlet

Fig. to challenge someone to an argument or to (figurative) combat. When Bob chal— lenged my conclusions, he threw down the gauntlet. I was ready for an argument. Frowning at Bob is the same as throwing down the gauntlet. He loves to get into a fight about something.

See also: throw

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run the gauntlet

to have to deal with a lot of people who are criticizing or attacking you (usually + of ) The minister had to run the gauntlet of anti-nuclear protesters when he arrived at the plant.

See also: run

throw down the gauntlet

to invite someone to argue, fight, or compete with you A price war could break out in the High Street after a leading supermarket threw down the gauntlet to its competitors.

See also: throw

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run the gauntlet

1. to experience severe criticism or great difficulties Every idea that is presented must run the gauntlet of the Review Committee, and such reviews are never pleasant.

2. to have to move by a line or group people trying to get your attention Before you get to the beach, you have run the gauntlet of shouting souvenir sellers and dirty snack bars.

Usage notes: sometimes spelled gantlet

Etymology: based on the old-fashioned military meaning of run the gauntlet (to punish a soldier by forcing him to run between two lines of men who hit him as he goes by them)

See also: run