Anchorettes meaning

Anchorettes are women who withdraw from society to live a solitary and ascetic life devoted to spiritual pursuits.


Anchorettes definitions

Word backwards setterohcna
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division an-cho-rettes
Plural The plural of the word anchorettes is anchorettes.
Total letters 11
Vogais (3) a,o,e
Consonants (6) n,c,h,r,t,s

Anchorettes were medieval female hermits who chose to live a solitary life dedicated to prayer and contemplation. These women were often seeking spiritual enlightenment and a closer connection to their faith through isolation and self-discipline.

Life of an Anchorite

Anchorettes lived in small, sealed rooms attached to churches or monasteries known as anchorholds. These rooms typically had a small window through which food and other essentials could be passed to the anchorite. The anchorite would spend their days in prayer, meditation, and contemplation of religious texts.

Isolation and Devotion

The life of an anchorette was one of extreme isolation, with minimal contact with the outside world. This solitude allowed them to focus entirely on their spiritual practices and deepen their relationship with God. The anchorite would often take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience in their pursuit of divine connection.

Community and Influence

Despite their solitary lifestyle, anchorettes often held great influence within their communities. People would seek out their wisdom and guidance, believing them to possess special insight and spiritual authority. Some anchorites became known for their holiness and were revered as saints after their deaths.

Legacy and Impact

The tradition of anchoresses continued for several centuries, with many women choosing this path of spiritual devotion. While the practice has largely faded in modern times, the stories of these brave and deeply committed women continue to inspire those seeking a deeper connection to their faith.


Anchorettes Examples

  1. The anchorettes spent their days in seclusion, meditating and praying.
  2. The anchorettes took a vow of silence as part of their monastic practice.
  3. Visitors were not allowed to disturb the anchorettes in their secluded hermitage.
  4. The anchorettes grew their own food in the monastery garden.
  5. Some anchorettes practiced extreme asceticism, living in harsh conditions.
  6. The anchorettes were known for their wisdom and spiritual insight.
  7. The anchorettes dedicated their lives to serving their community through prayer.
  8. The anchorettes wore simple robes and lived a life of humility.
  9. The anchorettes were revered for their deep connection to the divine.
  10. Many anchorettes were sought out for guidance and counsel by laypeople.


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  • Updated 27/06/2024 - 01:17:16