| run the gauntlet 1. to experience severe criticism or great difficulties. Every idea that is presented must run the gauntlet of the Review Committee, and such reviews are never pleasant. 2. to have to move by a line or group people trying to get your attention. Before you get to the beach, you have run the gauntlet of shouting souvenir sellers and dirty snack bars. Usage notes: sometimes spelled gantlet Etymology: based on the old-fashioned military meaning of run the gauntlet (= to punish a soldier by forcing him to run between two lines of men who hit him as he goes by them) |