magdalen

noun

mag·​da·​len ˈmag-də-lən How to pronounce magdalen (audio)
variants or magdalene
often capitalized
1
: a reformed prostitute
2
: a house of refuge or reformatory for prostitutes

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

1563, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of magdalen was in 1563

Dictionary Entries Near magdalen

Cite this Entry

“Magdalen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/magdalen. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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