Magdalene asylum
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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)