Synonyms of estrange

estrange

verb

i-ˈstrānj 

as in to infuriate

to cause to change from friendly or loving to unfriendly or uncaring

she estranged several of her coworkers when she let her promotion go to her head

Synonyms & Similar Words

• infuriate
• alienate
• anger
• alien
• enrage
• outrage
• sour
• sever
• annoy
• disaffect
• embitter
• disappoint
• irritate
• disgruntle
• antagonize
• aggravate
• bother
• dissociate
• disunite
• inflame
• divide
• exasperate
• rile
• rankle
• disillusion
• split
• uncouple
• roil
• sunder
• irk
• vex
• envenom
• unlink
• madden
• disenchant
• separate
• incense
• unyoke
• chafe
• pique
• bug
• grate
• gall
• break up
• peeve
• nettle

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• reconcile
• appease
• placate
• endear
• conciliate
• ingratiate
• disarm
• pacify
• propitiate
• mollify

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb estrange contrast with its synonyms?

The words alienate and disaffect are common synonyms of estrange. While all three words mean "to cause one to break a bond of affection or loyalty," estrange implies the development of indifference or hostility with consequent separation or divorcement.

his estranged wife

When could alienate be used to replace estrange?

The words alienate and estrange are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, alienate may or may not suggest separation but always implies loss of affection or interest.

managed to alienate all his coworkers

When would disaffect be a good substitute for estrange?

The words disaffect and estrange can be used in similar contexts, but disaffect refers especially to those from whom loyalty is expected and stresses the effects (such as rebellion or discontent) of alienation without actual separation.

troops disaffected by hunger

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of estrange

The couple was still legally married when Bourdain died, but had been publicly estranged for years. — Samantha Bergeson, Vanity Fair, 7 Aug. 2026

Despite being estranged from his and Kate’s birth father, Oliver admitted to having buried the hatchet with his bio-dad in 2018 on Watch What Happens Live. — Brianna Zigler, InStyle, 7 Aug. 2026

That’s the daughter Tamra is estranged from and who doesn’t want to be on the show. — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 24 July 2026

Rodgers also has been estranged from his parents and brothers for quite some time now. — Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 22 July 2026