Magdalene

noun

Mag·​da·​lene ˈmag-də-ˌlēn How to pronounce Magdalene (audio)
variants or less commonly Magdalen
ˈmag-də-lən How to pronounce Magdalene (audio)
or magdalene or magdalen
plural Magadelenes also ; Magdalens or ; magdelenes also ; magdalens
1
old-fashioned : a woman who engages in performing sex acts and especially sexual intercourse in exchange for pay
2
dated : a house of refuge or reformatory for women who have engaged in performing sex acts and especially sexual intercourse in exchange for pay

Examples of Magdalene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Using the real story of the Magdalene Laundries, writer Enda Walsh, working from the book by Claire Keegan, tells a story that hinges on a great moral dilemma. — Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 17 Dec. 2024 Many of the babies born in the Magdalene Laundries, died from starvation, from the cold and from neglect. — Maelle Beauget-Uhl, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Mary Magdalen or Magdalene woman healed by Jesus of evil spirits (Luke 8:2), considered identical with a reformed prostitute (Luke 7:36–50)

First Known Use

1697, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Magdalene was in 1697

Phrases Containing Magdalene

Rhymes for Magdalene

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Browse Nearby Words

Magdalena
Magdalene
Magdalenian
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Magdalene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Magdalene. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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