Lewis & Short

† phălangae and pălangae, ārum, f. plur., = φάλαγγες.

  1. I. In gen., a pole to carry burdens on, carrying-pole, Vitr. 10, 3, 7: proelium Afri contra Aegyptios primum fecere fustibus, quos vocant phalangas, Plin. 7, 56, 57, § 260; 12, 4, 8, § 17.
  2. II. In partic., a wooden roller, to place under ships and military machines for the purpose of moving them along (class.), Varr. ap. Non. 163, 23 sq.; Caes. B. C. 2, 10 fin.