Gauntlet vs. Gantlet — What's the Difference?

Gauntlet historically refers to a protective glove worn as part of a suit of armor. It's designed to protect the hands in combat. The term has evolved to mean any challenging or trying experience, as in "throwing down the gauntlet" which means issuing a challenge. Gantlet, though often confused with gauntlet, traditionally means a form of punishment where a person is forced to run between two rows of people who strike them. Today, it's used more broadly to describe enduring a series of difficulties or challenges.

Gauntlet in modern usage can symbolize a challenge or trial. This comes from the medieval practice of throwing down one’s gauntlet as a way of challenging someone to a duel. On the other hand, gantlet is less about challenge and more about enduring an ordeal, often involving multiple hardships or criticisms.

The design of a gauntlet glove is robust, covering the hand and wrist, and sometimes extending to cover part of the arm. In contrast, the concept of a gantlet doesn't relate to a physical object but rather an experience or ritual of punishment or testing.

In literature and media, a gauntlet is often depicted as a piece of armor worn by knights or warriors. Gantlet, however, is usually referenced in stories or narratives involving trials, tribulations, or a series of challenging events.

Both terms have been metaphorically used in modern language. To “throw down the gauntlet” means to challenge someone, and to “run the gantlet” means to endure a series of troubles or challenges.