Definition of: phalanx

(fā′langks, esp. Brit. fal′angks) noun plural pha·lan·ges (fə·lan′jēz) or pha·lanx·es
1. In ancient Greece, a marching order of heavy infantry, with close ranks and files, joined shields, and spears overlapping.
2. Any massed or compact body or corps, such as a group of Fourierites.
3. Anat. One of the bones articulating with the joints of the fingers or toes. See synonyms under ARMY. [<L phalanx, phalangis <Gk. phalanx, phalangos a line of battle]