1. a lightly armed ancient Greek soldier who carried a small shield and javelin
Usage: historical

Examples

• The peltast threw his javelin at the enemy formation.
• Peltasts were known for their mobility on the battlefield.
• Ancient Greek armies often included peltasts as skirmishers.
• The peltast’s small shield offered limited protection but allowed quick movement.
• Historians describe how peltasts harassed heavy infantry with missile weapons.
• The general deployed peltasts on the flanks of his main force.