Hoplites were heavily armed foot soldiers in ancient Greece, particularly during the 7th to 4th centuries BCE. They typically fought in a phalanx formation, which involved standing shoulder to shoulder with other soldiers, creating a wall of shields and spears. This formation allowed them to be more effective in battle, as they could protect one another while advancing against their enemies. The term "hoplite" comes from the word hoplon, which refers to the large round shield they carried. In addition to the hoplon, hoplites were equipped with a spear, a short sword, and wore armor made of bronze or leather, providing them with protection during combat.