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

'anachōrētēs' transformed into the Latin word 'anachorēta,' and eventually became the modern English word 'anchorite' through Old French 'anchorete.'

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