Hermitage: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'hermitage' originates from the Old French term 'ermitage', which is derived from the Latin 'eremita', meaning 'hermit'. This, in turn, traces back to the Greek 'eremites', which means 'of the desert'. The early use of 'hermitage' referred to the dwellings of hermits who sought solitude in the deserts and wilderness, often for spiritual reasons. Over time, the term has evolved to describe any secluded place of retreat, particularly for individuals pursuing a contemplative or religious lifestyle. Hermitages became notable in Christian monasticism, where early Christian hermits sought to live separately from society to devote themselves to prayer and meditation. Today, the term can also refer to similar types of retreats in various spiritual practices and can denote places of artistic inspiration or personal reflection.

Positioned at #24,677, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 24677 hermitage
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