Magdalene asylum
English
editEtymology
editNamed after Mary Magdalene, traditionally associated with prostitution and patron saint of penitent sinners.
Noun
editMagdalene 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)