'anfractuous' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'anfractuosus,' where 'anfractus' meant 'a winding or bend.'

'anfractuosus' changed from Latin to Middle French as 'anfractueux,' and eventually became the modern English word 'anfractuous.'

Initially, it meant 'full of windings or bends,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage, describing something winding or complex.