The term «mysticism» has Ancient Greek origins with various historically determined meanings. Derived from the Greek word μύω múō, meaning «to close» or «to conceal», mysticism came to refer to the biblical, liturgical (and sacramental), spiritual, and contemplative dimensions of early and medieval Christianity. During the early modern period, the definition of mysticism grew to include a broad range of beliefs and ideologies related to «extraordinary experiences and states of mind».