Hannibalic

/hænɪˈbælɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or resembling the military tactics and strategies of Hannibal, the ancient Carthaginian general known for clever battlefield maneuvers.

Etymology

From Hannibal (247-183 BCE), the famous Carthaginian military commander, plus the suffix -ic meaning 'of or relating to.' The term evolved to describe his distinctive strategic methods, particularly his use of double envelopment tactics.

Kelly Says

Hannibal's most famous tactic was the double envelopment at the Battle of Cannae (216 BCE), where he deliberately weakened his center to trap the larger Roman army on both sides—a maneuver so brilliant it's still studied in military academies today!

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