'anagnorisis' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'anagnōrisis,' where 'ana-' meant 'again' and 'gnōrisis' meant 'recognition.'

'anagnorisis' changed from the Greek word 'anagnōrisis' and was adopted into English in the 18th century, retaining its original form and meaning.

Initially, it meant 'recognition or discovery,' especially in a dramatic context, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage, focusing on a character's critical realization.