The "refuse"

The refuse cavalry formation was a military tactic used by mounted cavalry. It allowed outnumbered units to avoid being enveloped by a larger force.

In the refuse, some men were held back behind the initial line when it engages the enemy. The enemy would naturally surround the smaller line and get sucked in. The reserve units behind the first wave could then use their tactical advantage to surround the flanking enemy units. It was used in the Battle of Blenheim in 1704 by the commander of the allied forces, the Duke of Marlborough.