What means poleis?

"Poleis" is the plural form of "polis," a term in ancient Greek that refers to a city-state, which was a central urban area that also encompassed surrounding territories. Each polis functioned as an independent political entity, with its own government, laws, and customs. Notable examples include Athens and Sparta, which were significant in shaping Greek culture and politics. The concept of poleis was fundamental to the development of democracy and civic identity in ancient Greece.