alienate
3 synonyms and 2 antonyms for alienate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To make someone feel isolated, unwelcome, or estranged.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use alienate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
alienate voters
alienate friends
feel alienated
Etymology
From Latin alienatus, past participle of alienare ("to estrange"), from alienus ("belonging to another").
Full origin of alienate →Frequently asked questions
What does “alienate” mean?
The word “alienate” means to make someone feel isolated, unwelcome, or estranged. In plain terms, to push someone away emotionally, or, in formal legal language, to give up ownership of property.
How do you pronounce “alienate”?
“Alienate” is pronounced AY-lee-uh-nayt (/ˈeɪ.li.ə.neɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “alienate” in a sentence?
Here is “alienate” used in a sentence: “His constant criticism alienated most of his coworkers.”
What is the opposite of “alienate”?
The opposite of “alienate” — its antonyms — are accept and befriend.
What part of speech is “alienate”?
“Alienate” is a verb.
Where does the word “alienate” come from?
The word “alienate” comes from Latin. From Latin alienatus, past participle of alienare ("to estrange"), from alienus ("belonging to another").
How many meanings does “alienate” have?
“Alienate” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to make someone feel isolated, unwelcome, or estranged.
