Phalanx: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ก๏ธ
phalanx
[ หfeษชlรฆลks ]
military formation
In ancient warfare, a phalanx refers to a closely packed formation of troops, typically armed with spears and shields, which provided a strong defensive structure. This formation was mainly used by Greek armies and allowed for coordinated attacks against the enemy. The phalanx required discipline among soldiers to ensure that they moved and fought as a single unit, making it highly effective in battle. The concept of the phalanx has also been adopted in discussions about modern tactics and organization in military strategy.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The Greek phalanx was a revolutionary military formation.
- During the battle, the soldiers maintained a tight phalanx.
- The general ordered the troops to form a phalanx before engaging the enemy.
- Phalanx tactics were pivotal in ancient Greek warfare.
anatomy
In anatomy, a phalanx refers to any of the bones in the fingers and toes. There are three phalanges in each finger and two in each thumb, forming a key part of the skeletal system that aids in movement and dexterity. The phalanges are categorized into proximal, middle, and distal phalanges based on their position. The structure and arrangement of the phalanges are crucial for the functionality of the hands and feet.
Synonyms
bone, digit bone
Examples of usage
- The doctor examined the broken phalanx.
- Each finger has three phalanges.
- The phalanx structure allows for a wide range of motion.
- Injury to the phalanx can affect hand functionality.
Translations
Translations of the word "phalanx" in other languages:
๐ต๐น falange
๐ฎ๐ณ เคซเฅเคฒเฅเคเฅเคธ
๐ฉ๐ช Phalanx
๐ฎ๐ฉ falang
๐บ๐ฆ ัะฐะปะฐะฝะณะฐ
๐ต๐ฑ falanga
๐ฏ๐ต ใใกใฉใณใฏใน
๐ซ๐ท phalanx
๐ช๐ธ falange
๐น๐ท falanks
๐ฐ๐ท ํ๋ํฌ์ค
๐ธ๐ฆ ูููุงููุณ
๐จ๐ฟ falanga
๐ธ๐ฐ falanga
๐จ๐ณ ๆน้ต
๐ธ๐ฎ falanga
๐ฎ๐ธ falanx
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะฐะปะฐะฝะณะฐ
๐ฌ๐ช แคแแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ falanks
๐ฒ๐ฝ falange
Word origin
The word 'phalanx' originates from the Latin term 'phalanx,' which in turn is derived from the Greek word 'ฯฮฌฮปฮฑฮณฮพ' (phalรกnx). The word has its roots in ancient Greek military history, where it referred to a troop formation used in battle. The classical phalanx was characterized by soldiers standing shoulder to shoulder, creating a wall of shields and projecting spears, which offered protection and strength in combat. This distinctive military tactic can be traced back to the 5th century BC, particularly among the city-states of Greece. The term has since evolved and is utilized in modern contexts, including anatomy, where it describes the bones in the fingers and toes. The dual meaning of 'phalanx' in both military and anatomical contexts demonstrates the interconnectedness of language and culture over time.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #17,836, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
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- 17833 finale
- 17834 ensign
- 17835 islet
- 17836 phalanx
- 17837 uncomfortably
- 17838 unimpaired
- 17839 souvenir
- ...