'anchoretism' originates from Medieval Latin, specifically the word 'anchorita,' where 'anachoreta' meant 'one who has retired from the world for religious reasons.'

'anchorita' transformed into the English word 'anchoret' and the abstract noun 'anchoretism' was formed to describe the practice or state.

Initially, it meant 'the practice of religious seclusion,' and this meaning has remained consistent in modern usage.