workhouse

/ˌwʌrkˈhaʊs/

Other forms: workhouses

Definitions of workhouse

1. noun

   a poorhouse where able-bodied poor are compelled to labor
   type of:

   poorhouse

   an establishment maintained at public expense in order to provide housing for the poor and homeless
2. noun

   a county jail that holds prisoners for periods up to 18 months
   type of:

   clink, gaol, jail, jailhouse, pokey, poky, slammer

   a correctional institution used to detain persons who are in the lawful custody of the government (either accused persons awaiting trial or convicted persons serving a sentence)