throw down the gauntlet . throw down the gauntlet {v. phr.} To challenge, especially to a fight. Another candidate for the presidency has thrown down the gauntlet. Categories: add yours {v. phr.} Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2024 To section: T Subscribe to: American IdiomsIdioms feedEnglish languageHome page and general feed Discuss