alienation
noun
alien·ation
ˌā-lē-ə-ˈnā-shən 
ˌāl-yə-
1
: a withdrawing or separation of a person or a person's affections from an object or position of former attachment : estrangement
Alienation … from the values of one's society and family.—
S. L. Halleck
S. L. Halleck2
: a conveyance of property to another
Examples of alienation in a Sentence
after years of alienation from her family, she became reconciled with them when her father fell ill
Recent Examples on the Web
This section features collages, handwritten notes, and paintings that explore themes of adolescence, vulnerability, and alienation through childlike figures.
—Robert Lang, Deadline, 2 Apr. 2026
But if not, Trump’s decision to go to war with Iran may only deepen many Americans’ alienation from their government.
—Matt Peterson, CNBC, 1 Apr. 2026
The result thus far has been the intensification of American military pressure and the permanent alienation of Iran’s neighbors, some of whom will support or even join the war against it.
—Eliot A. Cohen, The Atlantic, 23 Mar. 2026
An illegible city produces anxiety, alienation and disorientation.
—Yunus Emre Tozal, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for alienation
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Robert Lang, Deadline, 2 Apr. 2026
But if not, Trump’s decision to go to war with Iran may only deepen many Americans’ alienation from their government.
—Matt Peterson, CNBC, 1 Apr. 2026
The result thus far has been the intensification of American military pressure and the permanent alienation of Iran’s neighbors, some of whom will support or even join the war against it.
—Eliot A. Cohen, The Atlantic, 23 Mar. 2026
An illegible city produces anxiety, alienation and disorientation.
—Yunus Emre Tozal, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for alienation
Cite this Entry
“Alienation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alienation. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
alienation
noun
alien·ation
ˌā-lē-ə-ˈnā-shən
ˌāl-yə-ˈnā-
1
: a withdrawing or separation of a person or a person's affection from an object of past attachment
2
: a transfer of property to another
Medical Definition
alienation
noun
alien·ation
ˌā-lē-ə-ˈnā-shən, ˌāl-yə-
: a withdrawing or separation of a person or a person's affections from an object or position of former attachment
alienation … from the values of one's society and family—S. L. Halleck
S. L. HalleckLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
