Meaning of Mary Ellen | Babel Free

Definitions

A working-class woman, typically dressed in a shawl, carrying one or more babies, and working as a market trader.

UK, historical

Examples

“Young and middle-aged women often caring for large families were known as 'Mary Ellens'. They dressed in a most distinctive fashion with large black shawls draped over their shoulders and fastened at the middle. The shawl formed a large pocket under each arm; often one would hold⟳ a baby, the other a bag and perhaps a little food which the Mary Ellen had managed to shoplift. Their men were known as Dicky Sams. […] Typically a Mary Ellen would hock her wedding ring⟳ for a barrow and a load⟳ of produce⟳. […] At the end⟳ of the day she would have⟳ enough money to pay⟳ for the barrow and retrieve her ring⟳.”

“Luke staggered blindly down the street, almost bumping into an old woman in black with a shawl drawn close⟳ about her head and shoulders—a Mary Ellen they called them round here.”

“Dad had just laughed when Rose said she wouldn't mind⟳ being a Mary Ellen but Mam had tightened her mouth and sniffed.”

CEFR level