The spelling of the word "magdalen" follows the traditional English pronunciation rules. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word would be /ˈmæɡdln/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound, followed by a hard "g" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a soft "d" sound that is almost silent, followed by a short "l" sound. This word is commonly used to refer to Mary Magdalene, a follower of Jesus in the Bible.
Magdalen is a noun that refers to a term derived from the biblical character Mary Magdalene, who is described as one of Jesus Christ's followers. In a historical context, magdalen can refer to a woman or girl who is associated with a house of prostitution or a reformatory institution for women or girls who were engaged in prostitution or deemed as fallen women.
The term "magdalen" has evolved to carry a connotation related to the concept of redemption or reform. As society's understanding of sex work and individual agency has developed, the term has waned in popularity, and more neutral or non-judgmental terminology regarding people in the sex industry has gained acceptance.
In some cases, "magdalen" may still be used to describe certain religious institutions, such as Magdalen asylums or Magdalene laundries, which historically provided refuge or rehabilitative support for women who had formerly been involved in prostitution or considered "morally fallen." These institutions were often operated by religious orders and aimed to aid women in finding spiritual and societal redemption.
Today, the term "magdalen" is primarily recognized as a historical reference and may be used to discuss the social and cultural attitudes towards women involved in sex work or the historical context of reform institutions.
A reformed prostitute-so called after Mary Magdalene of Scripture.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Magdalen" comes from the Latin term "Magdalēna" which is derived from the Greek word "Magdalēnē". This Greek word, in turn, is thought to originate from the Aramaic word "migdal" meaning "tower" or "elevated, great".