'anarchist' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'anarkhos,' where 'an-' meant 'without' and 'arkhos' meant 'ruler.'

'anarkhos' transformed into the French word 'anarchiste,' and eventually became the modern English word 'anarchist' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'without a ruler,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who believes in or tries to bring about anarchy.'