gauntlet

noun

variants also gantlet
Definition of gauntletnext
as in ordeal
a test of faith, patience, or strength before being adopted, school textbooks must often run the gauntlet of several local and state committees

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of gauntlet Objectively, running the full gauntlet of a classification’s elite is a steeper climb. — Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 June 2026 The gauntlet of booby traps culminating in the giant boulder that kick off Raiders is my single favorite opening sequence in a movie ever. — Chris Nashawaty, Entertainment Weekly, 13 June 2026 Every detail feels intentional, from the intricate French lace to the removable lace gauntlets and dramatic overskirt. — Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 17 June 2026 The National Mall seems to be wrapped in a variety of fencing, some of it in place for construction reasons, some of it to create a security gantlet for the July 4 celebration. — Matt Viser, The Atlantic, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for gauntlet
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gauntlet
  1. ordeal
  2. fire
  3. trial
Noun
  • According to the marine science center, Wilbur did not have identification tags, and, following the stressful ordeal, officials decided not to tag her.
    — Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 2 July 2026
  • Engelmayer said Weinstein's medical ordeal was exacerbated by a case of pneumonia.
    — Edward Segarra, USA Today, 1 July 2026
Definition of ordeal
Noun
  • An evacuation warning was issued for the area of Paradise Ranch, between Templin Highway and the Pyramid Lake area, according to Los Angeles County fire officials.
    — Andrea Klick, Daily News, 7 July 2026
  • In Los Angeles County, the fire department said a man was critically injured after a fire burned at least two cars in a parking lot in the Wilmington neighborhood on July 3.
    — Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 7 July 2026
Definition of fire
Noun
  • Defense attorneys argued during the trial that the defendants planned a peaceful protest and noise demonstration with fireworks to show support for people detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
    — Amy McDaniel, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 July 2026
  • If the judge finds there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial, Robinson will be arraigned and enter pleas.
    — Nicki Brown, CNN Money, 6 July 2026
Definition of trial

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Cite this Entry

“Gauntlet.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gauntlet. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on gauntlet

Nglish: Translation of gauntlet for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about gauntlet

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