Definition

A person who lives alone in a quiet place, often for religious reasons, to focus on prayer and meditation.

Example

The anchorite spent many years in solitude, dedicating his life to spiritual reflection.

Conversation

Did you hear about that anchorite who lives on the outskirts of town?

Yeah, I read something about them in the newspaper last week.

It's interesting how some people choose to live in such seclusion for spiritual reasons.

Definitely, it makes you think about what really matters in life.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anchorite → It is formed from 'anchoretes' (from Greek 'ἀναχωρητής', meaning one who withdraws) and the suffix '-ite' (meaning a person associated with). The word describes a person who withdraws from society for religious reasons, often to live in solitude.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'withdraws' ('anchoretes') from the world to live a solitary life — that's what an anchorite does.

Visually Confused Words