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

At the time, Haylie — who is rumored to be estranged from her sister — liked the Instagram that Tisdale posted to her account of the article. —Denise Warner, Billboard, 28 Jan. 2026

An email to Damon has also been leaked, as have a slew of texts between Lively and her reportedly estranged pal Taylor Swift, who Baldoni’s camp now intends to call as a hostile witness. —Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 23 Jan. 2026

She is set to recur as Jenny Ballard, Renée Ballard’s (Maggie Q) estranged mom. —Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 22 Jan. 2026

Many of those vying for power are related to, and estranged from, their opponents. —Rachel Monroe, New Yorker, 21 Jan. 2026