An attacking tactic used by the armies of the Númenóreans and by their descendants, the Dúnedain in Middle-earth. It consisted of a tapering wedge-shaped formation (the 'spearhead' of its name), which would charge the enemy and rely on the superior strength and weaponry of the Númenóreans to break apart their foe.
The man-spearhead was at its most powerful against unprepared enemies, though it could also be used against defensive formations. It had the greatest effect over open, flat terrain, but it was less useful against an enemy who held high ground. The name 'man-spearhead' is a translation from Elvish; in Sindarin it was known as a dírnaith, and in Quenya a nernehta.
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- Updated 4 April 2026
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