'anchoret' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'anachōrētēs', where 'ana-' meant 'back' and 'chōrein' meant 'to withdraw'.

'anachōrētēs' changed from the Late Latin word 'anachoreta', and eventually became the modern English word 'anchoret' through Old French and Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'one who withdraws', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a religious recluse or hermit'.