phalanx

A compact or close-knit body of people.

A formation of infantry carrying overlapping shields and long spears, developed by Philip II of Macedon and used by Alexander the Great.

A bone of a finger or toe.

In entomology, any one of the joints of the tarsus.

In Gr. antiquity, in general, the whole of the heavy-armed infantry of an army; particularly, a single grand division of that class of troops when formed in ranks and files close and deep, with their shields joined and long spears overlapping one another so as to present a firm and serried front to a foe.

Any body of troops or men formed in close array, or any combination of people distinguished for firmness and solidity of union.

In Fourier’s plan for the reorganization of society, a group of persons, numbering about 1, 800, living together and holding their property in common. See Fourierism.

In anatomy and zoology:

A row or series of bones in the fingers or toes.