verb
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alienate
AY-lee-uh-nayt
Alienate (verb) means to make someone feel isolated, unwelcome, or estranged. Example: “His constant criticism alienated most of his coworkers.”
verb
1
To make someone feel isolated, unwelcome, or estranged.
"His constant criticism alienated most of his coworkers."
"The policy risks alienating younger voters."
2
(law) To transfer ownership of property to someone else.
"The trust forbade the heirs from alienating the family estate."
How to use alienate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo push someone away emotionally, or, in formal legal language, to give up ownership of property.
Common pairings
alienate voters
alienate friends
feel alienated
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Word forms
- Plural
- alienates
- Third person singular
- alienates
- Past tense
- alienated
Fill the gap
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His constant criticism _____ most of his coworkers.
Etymology
From Latin alienatus, past participle of alienare ("to estrange"), from alienus ("belonging to another").
Related words
Rhymes for alienate
See all rhymes for 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.
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