rorarii

The rorarii were a class of Roman soldiers who served in the early Roman Republic, particularly during the Samnite Wars. They were essentially a light infantry force, employed to harass the enemy with missile weapons before the main battle lines engaged. Their name is thought to derive from the Latin word "rorare," meaning to sprinkle or dew, alluding to the volleys of javelins and stones they would unleash.

These soldiers were typically armed with javelins (hastae velitares), a sword, and a shield. They were not heavily armored, prioritizing mobility and speed. Their role was crucial in disrupting enemy formations, softening them up for the more heavily armed legionaries, and often acting as skirmishers to scout or cover the flanks. Their effectiveness lay in their ability to move quickly across the battlefield and engage from a distance, preventing close combat until the opportune moment.

The rorarii were often placed in front of the legions or on the wings. As Roman military tactics evolved, particularly with the development of the manipular legion and later the cohort system, the specific role of the rorarii gradually diminished. Their functions were absorbed by other units, such as the velites in the later Republic, who served a similar purpose as light skirmishers. While the term "rorarii" itself fell out of common military usage, their contribution highlights the adaptability and tactical considerations of the early Roman army.