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phalanx

Phalanx (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ˈfalaŋks/

What does phalanx mean?

A tightly organized and coordinated formation of soldiers or individuals, historically used in ancient warfare as a defensive or offensive strategy.
"The soldiers formed a tight phalanx to advance towards the enemy lines."

Detailed Meaning of Phalanx

This term originates from ancient Greece, where soldiers would align themselves closely in ranks, often armed with spears and shields, creating a solid and impenetrable wall of protection. The arrangement of a phalanx relied on disciplined coordination and interlocking shields, which allowed the collective strength of the formation to deter or repel enemy attacks. Over time, the concept of a "phalanx" has evolved to metaphorically represent a united and closely aligned group, acting in concert to achieve a common goal or purpose, with the underlying idea of strength through unity and cooperation.

Example Sentences for Phalanx

1. The warrior's phalanx marched in perfect formation, shields interlocked.
2. She felt a sharp pain in her phalanx after accidentally slamming it against the door.
3. The doctor examined the patient's phalanx and determined it was fractured.
4. The archaeologists uncovered the skeletal remains of an ancient phalanx.
5. The football player suffered a dislocated phalanx during a tackle.
6. The artist meticulously painted each phalanx of the skeletal hand in the portrait.

Origin and Etymology of Phalanx

The noun 'phalanx' has its origins in ancient Greece. In Greek, 'phalanx' (φάλαγξ) referred to a tightly organized and coordinated formation of infantry soldiers, typically armed with spears and shields. This formation was a hallmark of ancient Greek warfare and was known for its effectiveness in both offense and defense. The term 'phalanx' itself is believed to be derived from the Greek word 'phalassein,' which means 'to arrange in rows' or 'to line up.' The 'phalanx' formation consisted of soldiers standing shoulder to shoulder in close ranks, forming a protective shield wall that made it difficult for enemies to break through. Over time, 'phalanx' became a symbol of unity, strength, and coordination. In contemporary usage, 'phalanx' describes any tightly organized and coordinated group of individuals or elements working together, often with a common purpose or strategy. The etymology of 'phalanx' underscores its historical significance in ancient Greek military tactics and its enduring association with unity and coordination in various contexts.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun phalanx:

disperse

formation

disband

scatter

Try Again!

Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Phalanx

1. The phalanx of protesters marched through the streets, chanting slogans.
2. The military commander strategically positioned his phalanx to protect the flanks.
3. The phalanx of books on the shelf caught the eye of the avid reader.
4. He flexed his phalanx, showing off his muscular fingers.
5. The phalanx of skyscrapers dominated the city skyline.
6. The dancer moved with grace, her phalanx creating beautiful shapes.
7. The athlete's phalanx was wrapped tightly in bandages to protect it during the match.
8. The museum displayed a rare artifact—a preserved phalanx bone from an ancient civilization.
9. The surgeon skillfully repaired the shattered phalanx, restoring mobility to the patient's hand.
10. The soldiers locked their phalanx shields together, forming an impenetrable wall of defense.
11. The phalanx of trees provided much-needed shade on a hot summer day.
12. The phalanx of reporters crowded around the celebrity, eager to ask questions.
13. She clenched her phalanx into a fist, ready to fight for her beliefs.
14. The team's success relied on the coordinated movements of their phalanx, working together as one unit.