pick up the gauntlet
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Related to pick up the gauntlet: gantlet
pick up the gauntlet
To accept or attempt a challenge or invitation, as to fight, argue, or compete. When it comes to civil rights issues, Mary is always eager to pick up the gauntlet. When the heavyweight champion boasted that nobody could beat him, no one expected this newcomer to pick up the gauntlet.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
pick up the gauntlet
ortake up the gauntlet
If you pick up the gauntlet or take up the gauntlet, you accept a challenge. Note: Gauntlets are long thick gloves which protect your hands, wrists, and forearms. Carlton, a key member of the team, was happy to pick up the gauntlet thrown down by his rival.
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012