Magdalene asylum
English edit
Etymology edit
Named after Mary Magdalene, traditionally associated with prostitution and patron saint of penitent sinners.
Noun edit
Magdalene asylum (plural Magdalene asylums)
- (historical) A religious prison for prostitutes and unmarried mothers, usually as a source of forced labour.
Synonyms edit
- Magdalene hospital, Magdalen hospital
- Magdalene laundry (chiefly Ireland)