Basic Details
Word: Gauntlet
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A thick glove made of leather that protects the hand, or a challenging set of difficulties.
Synonyms: Glove, challenge, ordeal
Antonyms: Ease, comfort
Idioms and Phrases
- Throw down the gauntlet: To challenge someone to a contest or competition. Example: "He threw down the gauntlet and challenged his rival to a race."
- Run the gauntlet: To go through a series of challenges or difficulties. Example: "She had to run the gauntlet of tough questions during the interview."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The knight picked up the gauntlet and prepared for battle to protect his kingdom.
Example 2: Completing the mountain hike was like running the gauntlet; it was tough but rewarding.
Example 3: When he decided to start his own business, he knew he would have to throw down the gauntlet and face many challenges.
Fun Fact
The term "gauntlet" has its roots in medieval times, where knights would wear these protective gloves as part of their armour. The phrase "to run the gauntlet" originally referred to a punishment where soldiers would have to run between two rows of men who would strike them.
Famous Quote
"A gauntlet can be thrown, but courage is what it takes to pick it up." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "gauntlet" mean as a noun?
a) A type of bird
b) A thick glove or a challenge
c) A hat
d) A kind of fruit
Answer: b) A thick glove or a challenge
2. Which of these is a synonym of "gauntlet"?
a) Comfort
b) Glove
c) Pillow
d) Table
Answer: b) Glove
3. What is an antonym of "gauntlet"?
a) Challenge
b) Ordeal
c) Ease
d) Struggle
Answer: c) Ease
4. Which sentence uses "gauntlet" correctly?
a) The gauntlet was very warm in the winter.
b) He had to pass through the gauntlet of challenges to succeed.
c) The gauntlet flew over the fence.
d) The gauntlet made a beautiful music.
Answer: b) He had to pass through the gauntlet of challenges to succeed.
5. What does the idiom "throw down the gauntlet" mean?
a) To cook a meal
b) To challenge someone
c) To take a nap
d) To play a game
Answer: b) To challenge someone
