TESTUDO Meaning and
Definition
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Testudo is a Latin word that originates from ancient Rome and refers to a specific military formation and defensive tactic employed by Roman soldiers during battles. The term testudo quite literally means "tortoise" in Latin, and this formation, when executed, resembles the protective shell of a tortoise.
In the testudo formation, soldiers with shields line up side by side, overlapping their shields to create a tightly packed, impenetrable shield wall. The soldiers in the front row kneel down and lock their shields together horizontally, forming a solid barrier against enemy attacks. The subsequent rows of soldiers above them also interlock their shields together, creating a roof-like structure over the kneeling soldiers. This arrangement shields the entire formation from above, providing protection from missiles such as arrows or rocks.
The testudo formation was primarily used to advance towards fortified positions, breach enemy defenses, or protect the Roman soldiers from being targeted by projectiles. The formation allowed soldiers to move forward while minimizing casualties. Additionally, it was occasionally employed during a siege as a means of reaching and breaking down the walls or gates of an opponent's fortress.
Overall, the testudo formation exemplified the tactical skill and ingenuity of the Roman military. Its successful implementation often played a decisive role in key battles of the time, showcasing the effectiveness of organized discipline and teamwork in overcoming formidable adversaries.
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In zool., the shield or covering of the tortoise family; in anc. Rome, a covering or screen for a number of soldiers during an attack, formed by their shields; in med., a broad soft tumour, called also a talpa.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TESTUDO
- restudo
- festudo
- gestudo
- yestudo
- 6estudo
- 5estudo
- twstudo
- tsstudo
- tdstudo
- trstudo
- t4studo
- t3studo
- teatudo
- teztudo
- textudo
- tedtudo
- teetudo
- tewtudo
- tesrudo
- te3tudo
Etymology of TESTUDO
The word "testudo" has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin noun "testūdō", which means "tortoise" in English. The term "testūdō" was used in ancient Rome to refer to a formation used by Roman soldiers to protect themselves from projectiles during battle. The soldiers would interlock their shields above their heads and form a nearly impenetrable shell, resembling the shell of a tortoise. Over time, the word "testudo" has been adopted into various other languages, including English, to describe similar formations or to refer to tortoises more generally.
Similar spelling words for TESTUDO
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