1
general::
Phrase(s): close ranks
to move closer together in a military formation. • The soldiers closed ranks and marched on the enemy in tight formation., Phrase(s): close ranks (with someone)
to join with someone in a cause, or agreement. • We can fight this menace only if we close ranks. • Let’s all close ranks with Ann and adopt her suggestions., Phrase(s): close ranks (behind someone or something)
to support someone or something; to back someone or something. • We will close ranks behind the party’s nominee. • Let’s close ranks behind her and give her the support she needs.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Unite, work together, as in The members decided to close ranks and confront the president. This expression, dating from the late 1700s, comes from the military, where it denotes bringing troops into close order so there are no gaps in the fighting line. (A slightly earlier form was close lines. ) It has been used figuratively since the mid-1800s.
American Heritage Idioms