Magdalene asylum

English

Etymology

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

Noun

Magdalene asylum (plural Magdalene asylums)

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

Synonyms

• Magdalene hospital, Magdalen hospital
• Magdalene laundry (chiefly Ireland)

Hypernyms

• asylum, labour camp, prison, workhouse