noun

Magdalene

MAG-duh-leen

Magdalene (noun) means a reformed prostitute (an older, now largely historical usage). Example: “The Victorian institution described itself as a refuge for "magdalenes" seeking a new life.”

noun

A reformed prostitute (an older, now largely historical usage).

"The Victorian institution described itself as a refuge for "magdalenes" seeking a new life."

How to use Magdalene

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn old term for a reformed prostitute, drawn from the biblical figure Mary Magdalene.

When to use it

Archaic and now rarely used outside historical discussion; associated with the notorious Magdalene laundries/asylums.

Word forms

Magdalenes plural

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The Victorian institution described itself as a refuge for "_____" seeking a new life.

Etymology

From Mary Magdalene, "Mary of Magdala," a town on the Sea of Galilee; the generic sense arose from her traditional (though disputed) identification with a repentant sinner in the Gospel of Luke.

Rhymes for Magdalene

gene bene nene lene Rene scene Irene Keene Beene Ilene serene Selene

See all rhymes for Magdalene →

Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of Magdalene?

"Magdalene" (noun) means a reformed prostitute (an older, now largely historical usage).

How do you use Magdalene in a sentence?

Example: "The Victorian institution described itself as a refuge for "magdalenes" seeking a new life."