Magdalene asylum en · NOUN
Etymology
Named after Mary Magdalene, traditionally associated with prostitution and a patron saint of penitent sinners.
Meanings
- (historical) A religious prison for prostitutes and unmarried mothers, usually as a source of forced labour.
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magdalene asylums | Number=Plur | lexicographic |
Hypernyms
asylum · workhouse · labour camp · prison