'anagogics' originates from Medieval Latin, specifically the word 'anagogicus,' where 'anagoge' meant 'a spiritual or mystical interpretation.'

'anagogicus' transformed into the English word 'anagogic,' and the plural noun form 'anagogics' was later derived to refer to the system or practice.

Initially, it meant 'spiritual or mystical interpretation,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage, focusing on interpretive methods.