Phalanx

A phalanx is a rectangular military formation, typically composed of heavily armed infantrymen closely arrayed in ranks and files, wielding long spears, pikes, or other polearms. It served as a formidable and effective fighting unit in ancient warfare, particularly among the Greeks and Macedonians. The tight formation provided defensive strength through overlapping shields, allowing them to withstand frontal attacks and generate significant offensive force.

Phalanx meaning with examples

• The Greek hoplites formed their iconic phalanx, interlocking their shields to create an impenetrable wall against Persian arrows and infantry charges. The disciplined advance, row upon row, was devastating.
• Alexander the Great skillfully used the Macedonian phalanx in conjunction with cavalry to achieve decisive victories, exploiting its powerful forward push and flanking tactics.
• Modern military strategists study the phalanx's tactical effectiveness to understand the principles of combined arms warfare and infantry formations.
• The novel vividly described the advancing phalanx of Roman legionaries, their shield walls glistening under the sun, marching in perfect order to face their enemies.
• The historians discuss the development of the phalanx as a pivotal element in the evolution of warfare during the classical period.