alienate
verb (used with object)
to make indifferent or hostile.
alienating
-
present participleof alienate.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Whether you’re a young politician looking to avoid alienating your peers, or a senior representative not looking to upset the apple cart, there’s little incentive to squabble over the way things have always been done.
From Salon ● Sep. 2, 2026
But the move risks alienating customers who already may be grumbling about the complex array of ticket options when it comes time to book a flight.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 13, 2026
In a time when teen life is subsumed by alienating digital technology and an understandable risk-aversion, “Nimrods” takes the yearnings of its young punks seriously.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 5, 2026
Cracker Barrel must decide between appealing to its most loyal diners or potentially alienating them by breaking from its roots.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 29, 2026
All while he was attempting to establish a life in Budapest, and yet alienating everyone around him, Bobby was also trying to win over Zita.
From "Endgame" by Frank Brady
