Meaning & Definition
verb
to cause someone to feel isolated or estranged.
His constant criticism began to alienate his friends.
to transfer ownership of property or rights to another.
The company decided to alienate its old assets to focus on new investments.
Etymology
From Latin 'alienatus', meaning 'to make foreign'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
alienate someone:
to cause someone to feel unwelcome or estranged
alienated from society:
feeling disconnected from the community or social groups
Slang Meanings
to cut someone off socially or emotionally
She totally alienated him when she stopped replying to his texts.
to become distant from friends or family
After moving away for college, he felt alienated from his old friends.