ANCHORITE Meaning and
Definition
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An anchorite refers to an individual, typically a religious devotee, who chooses to live in seclusion and isolation for spiritual or contemplative purposes. The term stems from the Greek word "anachōrein," meaning "to withdraw" or "to remove oneself." Also known as a hermit or a recluse, an anchorite voluntarily renounces the various aspects of worldly life such as social interaction, material possessions, and secular pursuits.
Anchorites historically sought to deepen their connection with a higher power, usually within the context of a religious belief system. Often associated with Christianity, especially in the early medieval period, anchorites would withdraw to small, secluded living spaces, such as cells or small huts, either on church grounds or in remote locations like forests or deserts. These individuals would then dedicate themselves to lives of contemplation, prayer, and self-reflection, striving for spiritual growth and enlightenment. The anchorite's solitude was considered a means to achieve a heightened level of communion with the divine.
Through their chosen isolation, anchorites sought to detach themselves from the distractions and temptations of the outside world, focusing solely on their spiritual journey. They were highly respected and admired for their dedication and perceived holiness. In some cases, anchorites were sought out for guidance and counseling, as their solitary existence was believed to grant them wisdom and insight.
While the practice of being an anchorite has diminished over time, there are still individuals today who embrace similar lifestyles, although their motivations may differ. Nevertheless, the term "anchorite" continues to be associated with those who actively opt for a solitary existence, often in pursuit of a spiritual or contemplative goal.
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A hermit; a religious recluse.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ANCHORITE
Etymology of ANCHORITE
The word "anchorite" emerged from the Greek word "ἀναχωρέω" (anachōreō), meaning "to withdraw" or "to retire". It further developed into the noun "ἀναχωρητής" (anachōrētēs), which referred to someone who had withdrawn or retired from society, typically to live in seclusion for spiritual purposes. In Latin, this term became "anachorēta", from which the Old English word "ancre" was derived. Eventually, the term "anchorite" came into use in Middle English, retaining the same meaning of someone who has sequestered themselves in solitude, particularly for religious contemplation.
Similar spelling words for ANCHORITE
- anchorette,
- enshroud,
- Anchorate,
- up-anchored,
- unchaired,
- anchor light,
- unushered,
- Incharity,
- Anchored,
- unshored,
- well-anchored,
- enchaired,
- unshared,
- antiart,
- Uncharity,
- Unshowered,
- anchorperson,
- INCHRITI,
- anshar,
- anchorage,
- uncheered,
- un-anchored,
- inshort,
- angora,
- encheered,
- enchiridia,
- uncharred,
- anchorman,
- unsheared,
- ansari,
- anchoritic,
- anchor,
- co-anchored,
- Unchariot,
- Unshroud,
- anchariidae,
- anchor ring,
- Anchoret.
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