anchoress

[ ang-ker-is ]

noun

1. a woman who is an anchorite.

Gender Note

What's the difference between anchoress and anchor? See -ess.

Word History and Origins

Origin of anchoress¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; late Middle English anchoryse, Middle English ankres, equivalent to ancre anchorite + -es -ess

Example Sentences

The musician, real name Tor Maries, received messages of support from artists such as Billy Bragg, the Anchoress and Lonelady, who criticised the sexist and misogynist nature of the comments.

From BBC

"BBC Introducing is a crucial pipeline for anyone trying to break into the industry without the backing of a major label or financial backing of their own," added Welsh singer-songwriter Catherine Anne Davies, who performs as The Anchoress.

From BBC

Now the patriotic Welshmen have enlisted the help of compatriot Catherine Anne Davies - aka The Anchoress - to duet on Dylan & Caitlin - a track about the marriage of legendary Welsh poet Dylan Thomas.

From BBC

But the moment an anchoress ceased to live alone and took to herself companions the distinction between anchorage and convent tended to disappear; several English nunneries originated in voluntary settlements of two or three women, who desired to lead a solitary life withdrawn from the world.

From Project Gutenberg

Nowhere has the attitude been better stated than in the amusing description given in the Ancren Riwle of the anchoress’ cow: An anchoress that hath cattle appears as Martha was, a better housewife than anchoress: nor can she in any wise be Mary, with peacefulness of heart.

From Project Gutenberg