anchoretism, -it-|ˈæŋkərɪtɪz(ə)m, -aɪt-| [f. as prec. + -ism.] The practice or life of an anchorite. 1652Sparke Prim. Devot. (1663) 491 Hermitage, or sullen anchoretisme.1862R. Patterson Ess.Hist. & Art 347 The peaceful and humble Anchoritism of the first centuries.