Gauntlets Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งค
gauntlets
[หษกษหntlษชts ]
Definitions
protective gloves
Gauntlets are a type of protective gloves, typically made of leather or metal, worn as a part of medieval armor. They are designed to protect the hands and wrists in combat.
Synonyms
gloves, hand protection, mitts.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gauntlets |
Gauntlets are often used in historical or fantasy settings to describe a type of glove that covers and protects the wrist and lower arm, typically made of leather or metal.
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| gloves |
Gloves are general hand coverings that can be used in a variety of everyday situations such as for warmth, protection, or fashion.
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| mitts |
Mitts are more casual and informal, often referring to mitten-style gloves that separate the thumb but keep other fingers together, used for warmth or simple tasks.
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| hand protection |
Hand protection is a broad term usually employed in workplace safety to refer to various forms of protective equipment designed to safeguard hands from injuries, chemicals, or other hazards.
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Examples of usage
- They wore gauntlets to protect their hands in battle.
- The knight's gauntlets were adorned with intricate designs.
challenges or difficulties
Gauntlets can also refer to a series of challenges or difficulties that one must face or endure. It is often used metaphorically to describe a difficult or dangerous situation.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gauntlets |
Use when referring to a type of glove that protects the hand and wrist. Also, the phrase 'throwing down the gauntlet' refers to challenging someone to a duel or competition.
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| challenge |
Use when describing a task or situation that tests someone's abilities and requires effort. It can be mental, physical, or emotional.
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| obstacle |
Use when referring to something that blocks progress or makes it difficult to achieve a goal.
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| trial |
Use when referring to a difficult experience or a test of patience, endurance, or belief. Often carries a more serious or formal connotation.
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Examples of usage
- She had to run the gauntlet of criticism from her colleagues.
- He faced the gauntlet of the job interview process.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Gauntlets were commonly worn by knights during the Middle Ages, serving as essential armor.
- Combat styles required gauntlets to ensure both protection and grip, especially during sword fighting.
- Gauntlets also featured in tournaments, adding a decorative aspect to the armor worn by nobility.
Pop Culture
- In modern games and movies, gauntlets often symbolize strength or special powers, such as in superhero films.
- Gauntlets appeared as a significant plot device in various fantasy novels, representing heroic trials.
- Video games often feature gauntlets as weapons or shields that provide special abilities to characters.
Science
- Modern versions of gauntlets are used in various fields, including firefighting and hazardous material handling.
- In robotics, gauntlets are developed for prosthetic hands, allowing users to grip objects effectively.
- High-tech gauntlets can also integrate sensors to enhance performance in various applications like gaming.
Art & Literature
- Artists have depicted knights in gauntlets to signify bravery and the valor of medieval chivalry.
- Literary works often describe gauntlets as symbols of warrior pride, emphasizing their importance in battle.
- In poetry, gauntlets can represent the trials one must face, drawing a parallel between combat and life challenges.
Origin of 'gauntlets'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'gantelet', meaning 'little glove'.
- Gauntlets were originally referred to as 'gauntlets', used specifically for armored gloves in battle.
- The term evolved in the 14th century, indicating its ties to medieval warfare.
The word 'gauntlets' originated from the Old French word 'gantelet', which means 'a little glove'. It has been used since the 15th century to refer to gloves or protective armor for the hands. Over time, the term evolved to also represent a series of challenges or difficulties. Gauntlets have been a crucial part of medieval armor and continue to be used symbolically in various contexts.