Gloves Definition Gloves Definition 1

Gloves (noun) — an accessory typically of cloth, leather or any other material worn to protect hands, to keep them warm or to be fashionable.

Part of speech:
Noun (countable, plural)
Phonetic transcription (IPA):
/ɡlʌvz/
CEFR level:
A1
Word frequency:

How to Pronounce “Gloves”

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Tips for “gloves” pronunciation: 

Begin with a sound g such as in “go”, and on with a /ʌ/ sound (such as “cup”) and it finishes with a /vz/ sound (a soft buzzing v and the final s).

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How to Use “Gloves” in a Sentence

Common conversations about clothing, cold weather, sports or safety may include the mention of gloves. See how it’s used in context.

I always keep spare gloves in the car once the weather turns chilly.
She slipped off her gloves as soon as she walked indoors.
Those gardening gloves protect your hands from scratches.
He chose rubber gloves before cleaning the kitchen.
My touchscreen gloves let me use my phone without freezing my fingers.

What Are Synonyms for the Word “Gloves”?

“Gloves” has several synonyms that help learners talk about hand coverings for fashion, comfort, or protection.

Related nouns: mitts handwear gauntlets

Synonyms (contextual): mitts handwear finger coverings

Common collocations: put on gloves take off gloves wear gloves remove gloves

“Gloves” Word Formation and Description in Context

The use of adjectives, verbs, and noun constructions assists in creating typical combinations with “gloves.”

With adjectives: warm gloves leather gloves thick gloves waterproof gloves

With verbs: wear gloves put on gloves take off gloves buy gloves

With nouns (noun + noun): gloves lining gloves box gloves compartment gloves size

Idioms and Popular Phrases with “Gloves”

Define “gloves”: hand coverings worn in cold weather or at work or as an element of fashion.

  • Hand in gloves — to work very closely or in secret collaboration.

    Local businesses worked hand in gloves with the council to improve public spaces.

  • Throw down the gauntlet — to issue a challenge or dare someone (historically linked to armored gloves).

    The team captain threw down the gauntlet, challenging the other school to a friendly match.

  • Handle with kid gloves — to treat someone very delicately or carefully.

    The manager handled the new employee with kid gloves during the first week.
Gloves Idioma Gloves Idioma 1

  • Put on the gloves — to prepare for a fight, confrontation, or competition.

    The team put on the gloves as the championship match began.

“Gloves” Meaning: Test Your Knowledge

Explore the definition of “gloves” and check on what you have learnt through these tasks.

Type 1: True/false statements:
Choose the correct answer:
1
Gloves are worn on the hands.
2
Gloves are only used in winter.
3
Gloves may be used to shield hands in the course of work, sport or medical operation.
Type 2: Right word order:
Put these jumbled words into correct sentences:
1
new
gloves
of
Sarah
bought
a
pair
2
needs
Jack
winter
his
wear
gloves
to
3
put
the
on
carefully
She
gloves
Type 3: Choose the correct option
Select the answer closest in meaning:
1
You are going skiing. What item do you wear on your hands?
2
A chef wore disposable gloves before handling food. What are gloves used for here?
3
Boxers wear gloves in the ring. What does “gloves” mean in this context?

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“Gloves” Word in Other Languages

The English term “gloves” takes different forms in other languages. Here is a small table of how to say “gloves” in the main European languages:

Language Word for “Gloves”
Flag Spanish Spanish   Guantes
Flag French French   Gants
Flag German German   Handschuhe

Interesting Facts Behind the “Gloves” Word

Gloves are practical, stylish, and sometimes surprisingly symbolic throughout history. Some interesting facts about them are these:

  • Gloves had ceremonial roles.

    Priests, officials and the kings wore gloves in significant ceremonies signifying authority and respect.

  • Gloves were used in duels.

    The knights during the Middle Ages would drop a glove (or gauntlet) to issue a duel.

  • Gloves protected and displayed fashion.

    To protect hands, as well as to make a complete set, gloves were used during the Victorian era, where the length and material signified social rules.

  • Gloves in entertainment.

    Pop stars such as Michael Jackson also incorporated gloves into their image in popular culture and demonstrated that a simple accessory can create an image.

  • Gloves in science and medicine.

    Introduced in the 19th century, latex gloves revolutionized hygiene in hospitals and labs, safeguarding both the physicians and patients.

Famous Quotes Featuring “Gloves”

Objects we take for granted, like gloves, may express more than utility, which these quotes reveal.

“And her old Uncle William used to say a lady is known by her shoes and her gloves.”

— Virginia Woolf

Explanation: Quote highlights how small details, like shoes and gloves, reflect a person’s character, social status, or attention to appearance. In this context, gloves are more than just hand coverings, they symbolize elegance, manners, and the way a lady presents herself to the world.

“Don’t be a patron of disbelief; nobody fights and wins battles in the hand gloves of doubts.”

— Israelmore Ayivor

Explanation: Just as gloves can protect hands, doubts can hold you back from taking action. The message encourages facing challenges boldly, without letting fear or uncertainty shield you from striving toward success.

“A pure hand needs no glove to cover it.”

— Nathaniel Hawthorne

Explanation: The quote suggests that honesty and integrity don’t require concealment. Just as a clean hand doesn’t need a glove, a person with a pure heart or clear intentions has nothing to hide, emphasizing transparency and moral uprightness.