Definition

1. Noun:
   • A tactical formation: A "line of battle" is a military or naval formation in which troops, ships, or aircraft are arranged in a line, typically to maximize their firepower against an enemy force. This formation is prepared either to deliver an attack or to receive one.

Usage

• The term "line of battle" is primarily used in historical and military contexts to describe the standard tactical formation used in warfare, particularly during the age of sail in naval combat and in linear infantry tactics of the 17th to 19th centuries.
• It functions as a singular noun phrase. The plural is "lines of battle."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The admiral ordered the fleet to form a line of battle.
  • Breaking the enemy's line of battle was a key objective in naval warfare.
  • The infantry regiments stood in a line of battle, awaiting the order to advance.

Advanced Usage

• "to form a line of battle": To arrange military units into this specific tactical formation.
  • The general commanded his troops to form a line of battle along the ridge.
• "to hold the line of battle": To maintain the formation, especially under attack.
  • Despite heavy fire, the ship managed to hold its place in the line of battle.

Variants and Related Words

• Battle line (n): A synonymous term for "line of battle," often used interchangeably.
  • The cavalry charged the center of the enemy's battle line.
• Line-ahead formation (n): A specific naval term closely related to "line of battle," describing ships following one another in a line.
• Ship of the line (n): A type of large, powerful warship designed to fight in the line of battle.

Synonyms

• Battle formation: A general term for any tactical arrangement of troops for combat.
• Battle array: A more formal or literary synonym for troops deployed for battle.

Related Phrases

• Line of battle ship: An alternate, historical term for a "ship of the line."
• To deploy into line of battle: The action of moving units into this formation.

Noun

1. a line formed by troops or ships prepared to deliver or receive an attack