'anker' originates from Middle English and Middle Dutch/Low German, specifically from Middle Dutch/Low German 'anker' (or Middle English 'anker'), ultimately from Latin 'anchōra' and Greek 'ankȳra', where the root meant 'hook' or 'curved object'.

'anker' appeared in Middle English and in various northern European languages (Middle Dutch/Low German 'anker'), reflecting the Latin/Greek 'anchōra'/'ankȳra'; over time the form 'anchor' became the standard English spelling, while 'anker' remained as variant or in regional/archaic uses and as the name for a small cask/unit.

Initially, the root referred to a 'hook' or 'curved device' (the physical anchor); over time the form 'anker' was used both for the device and, in some contexts, extended to a small cask/unit of liquid, while modern English standardized on 'anchor' for the device.