This idiom describes enduring a series of challenges, criticisms, or ordeals, as if passing through a punishing gauntlet of attackers. It conveys perseverance through adversity, often used in professional, social, or personal contexts to depict a grueling trial. The phrase carries a tone of struggle, bravery, or defiance, reflecting cultural values of endurance and the human tendency to face collective opposition. Its military imagery evokes a harrowing passage, resonating in scenarios like public scrutiny or tough tasks. The idiom underscores survival through pressure, making it a dramatic metaphor for overcoming obstacles.

The phrase originated in 17th-century Europe, tied to a military punishment called ‘running the gauntlet,’ where a soldier passed between rows of comrades striking him, derived from the Swedish ‘gatlopp’ (lane-run). Its metaphorical use emerged in 19th-century Britain, with *The Times* (1830s) using it for political trials. The idiom gained traction in the 20th century, particularly in journalism and literature, with Ernest Hemingway’s *For Whom the Bell Tolls* (1940) using it for wartime struggles. Its adoption across English-speaking cultures stems from its intense imagery and applicability to high-pressure situations.