Phrase guide

gloves are off

phrase · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

phrase

Meaning 1

Expressing that people are arguing or competing without regard to propriety, restraint, feelings, or (even) safety.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • The gloves are off in this match; both teams are purposely committing fouls against opposing players!
  • In the early years after 9/11, it was often said of antiterrorism that "the gloves are off now."

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

One possible etymology comes from the sport of boxing, where competitors fistfight wearing padded gloves; removing the gloves during a fight could result in serious physical injury. Another comes from the trend of gentlemen wearing gloves as part of their outfit; these gloves would often be taken off before engaging in rough behavior. Compare throw down the gauntlet.