1. To unite or act together as a group, especially in response to external criticism or threat
When the scandal broke, the family closed ranks to protect their reputation.
Quando o escândalo eclodiu, a família fechou fileiras para proteger sua reputação.
2. Military: to move soldiers closer together in formation for defensive purposes
The soldiers closed ranks as the enemy approached.
Os soldados fecharam fileiras conforme o inimigo se aproximava.