English Explanatory Dictionary

Magdalene asylum

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A religious prison for prostitutes and unmarried mothers, usually as a source of forced labour.

Word forms

Magdalene asylum Magdalene asylums

Etymology

Named after Mary Magdalene, traditionally associated with prostitution and patron saint of penitent sinners.

Synonyms

Magdalene hospital Magdalen hospital Magdalene laundry
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