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

Michelle Zajko had been estranged from her parents ahead of the murders, investigators said. — Nadine El-Bawab, ABC News, 24 June 2026

Now adults and estranged, the siblings battle perception, reality, legacy and plenty of ghosts. — Clare Mulroy, USA Today, 20 June 2026

The View alum and her eldest daughter were estranged on and off throughout Chelsea's teenage and early adulthood years. — Anna Myers, PEOPLE, 15 June 2026

Queen of Hearts and The Girl with the Needle actress Trine Dyrholm co-stars a woman estranged from children who turns up uninvited at a weekend-long naming party for her son’s firstborn child at a luxury season resort. — Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 11 June 2026