To Throw Down the Gauntlet (Origin)

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What Is the Origin of the Saying "To Throw Down the Gauntlet"?

To throw down the gauntlet means to challenge. The term derives from the time of medieval knights when a knight would offer a challenge by throwing down his gauntlet (a metal glove which formed part of his suit of armour). The other knight accepted the challenge by picking up the gauntlet. To take up the gauntlet means to accept a challenge.

Examples of Use:

• Our competitors have thrown down the gauntlet by offering 50% off. We need to respond.
• Throwing down the gauntlet, she challenged her friend to a pie-eating contest.
• With that result, the Red Socks have thrown down the gauntlet to the rest of the league.

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