The Gaesatae (Greek Γαισάται) were a group of Gaulish warriors who lived in the Alps near the river Rhône and fought against the Roman Republic in the Battle of Telamon of 225 BC. The Greek historian Polybius says their name meant "mercenaries",[1] though the literal meaning in Gaulish is "Armed with javelins, Spearmen" (from Gaulish *gaison "spear, javelin"),[2] which matches Old Irish gaiscedach "champion, armed person", from gaisced "weapons", itself from gáe "spear, javelin"),[3] and compare quite closely with the medieval Irish fianna, who were small warbands of landless young men operating independently of any kingdom.