Phā'lanx or Phā'lănx, n.

(Synop., § 130), n. [Lat., Gr. φάλαγξ, Fr. phalange, It. falange, Sp. falanje.]

1. (Gr. Antiq.) A square battalion or body of soldiers, formed in ranks and files close and deep, with their shields joined and pikes crossing each other, so as to offer very firm resistance to a foe. “In cubic phalanx firm advanced.” Milton.
2. Any body of troops or men formed in close array, or any combination of people distinguished for firmness and solidity of union.
3. (pl. PHALAN'GES.) (Anat.) One of the series or the rows of small bones forming the fingers or the toes.
4. A compact society, or association of members, organized upon the plan of Fourier, and having a common dwelling.