The word anchoretical is often misspelled and difficult to pronounce correctly. According to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the correct pronunciation of this word is ˌæŋkəˈθiːrɪkəl. The "ch" in "anch" is a voiceless velar fricative and the "th" in "theo" is a voiceless dental fricative. The stress is on the third syllable. Anchoretical means relating to or living as a hermit, and is derived from the word "anchorite," which refers to a person who has withdrawn from society for religious reasons.
Anchoretical is an adjective that describes a lifestyle or state of being characteristic of an anchorite or hermit. Derived from the term "anchorite," an anchorite being a person who withdraws from society for religious or spiritual reasons, anchoretical refers to the practices, habits, or preferences associated with living a secluded or solitary life. It signifies a deliberate choice to live in isolation and seclusion, often for the purpose of contemplation, meditation, or religious devotion.
Anchoretical behavior can encompass various aspects of life, including physical seclusion from others, withdrawal from social activities, and limited engagement with the outside world. An anchoretical individual tends to adopt a reclusive lifestyle, residing in secluded spaces such as caves, hermitages, or monastic cells. They may prioritize solitude and introspection, seeking solace and spiritual growth through quiet reflection and introspection.
The term anchoretical is not limited to any specific religious or spiritual tradition, as individuals from different belief systems and cultures have embraced the anchoretical way of life throughout history. However, it is often associated with religious ascetics, such as Christian monks or Hindu Sadhus, who renounce worldly attachments and seek spiritual enlightenment through solitude and seclusion.
In summary, anchoretical refers to the characteristics, practices, and lifestyle of a hermit or anchorite, reflecting a deliberate choice to withdraw from society for contemplation, meditation, or spiritual growth.
Pert. to a hermit or his mode of life.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word anchoretical is derived from the noun anchorite combined with the suffix -al.
The noun anchorite comes from late Latin anchorita, which originated from the Greek word anachoretes. Anachoretes combines the prefix ana- meaning back or against and the noun choros meaning place. Thus, anachoretes literally translates to one who retires or withdraws from a place.
Over time, the noun anchorite referred to a person who withdrew from society and lived a solitary, monastic life for religious purposes. This term was often used to describe Christian hermits or monks who isolated themselves in remote locations to devote themselves to spiritual reflection and prayer.
The suffix -al is of Latin origin and serves to convert the noun anchorite into an adjective, resulting in anchoretical.