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estrangement

noun

/ɪˈstreɪndʒ mənt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of estrangement

A state of emotional or social distance, separation, or alienation between individuals or groups who were previously close or connected.
"The siblings' estrangement was evident during family gatherings, where they avoided each other."

Detailed meaning of estrangement

It represents a condition of being estranged, where there is a significant rift, lack of communication, or loss of intimacy in a relationship. Estrangement can occur within various contexts, such as familial relationships, friendships, or even larger social or cultural structures. It is often the result of prolonged conflicts, disagreements, misunderstandings, or a breakdown in trust. The experience of estrangement can lead to feelings of loneliness, sadness, or a sense of loss. It represents a fracture in the bond that once existed, resulting in a sense of detachment and a diminished sense of belonging. Estrangement may be temporary or long-lasting, and it can have a profound impact on the individuals or groups involved, shaping their emotions, behaviors, and perspectives.

Example sentences containing estrangement

1. The couple's constant arguments eventually led to an estrangement.
2. The prolonged period of silence between them indicated the depth of their estrangement.
3. Her decision to move to another country resulted in an estrangement from her friends and family.
4. The estrangement between the former business partners became irreparable after a series of lawsuits.
5. The bitter divorce proceedings caused an estrangement between the once-loving couple.
6. The estrangement between the two communities led to a breakdown in dialogue and cooperation.

History and etymology of estrangement

The term 'estrangement' has its origins in the Old French word 'estrangier,' which meant 'foreign' or 'alien.' This word, in turn, was derived from the Latin 'extraneare,' where 'extra' meant 'outside' or 'beyond.' Over time, 'estrangier' evolved into Middle English as 'estrangen,' retaining its sense of being foreign or alien. In the context of emotional or social distance, 'estrangement' embodies the idea of individuals or groups becoming emotionally foreign or distant from one another, reflecting a state of separation or alienation from a previous state of closeness or connection. This evolution of the word illustrates how language adapts to express nuanced concepts, reflecting the complexities of human relationships and emotions.

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Further usage examples of estrangement

1. Despite their best efforts, they couldn't bridge the gap of estrangement that had developed.
2. The estrangement left him feeling isolated and yearning for connection.
3. She sought therapy to heal the wounds of estrangement and rebuild her relationships.
4. The gradual estrangement between the childhood friends was difficult for both of them to accept.
5. The estrangement resulted in a sense of loss and longing for the closeness they once shared.
6. The couple's estrangement was a painful chapter in their relationship.
7. Family estrangement can be challenging to reconcile.
8. The long-distance caused an unfortunate estrangement.
9. The therapist helped them work through their estrangement.
10. Mutual misunderstandings led to their estrangement.
11. Estrangement can be a consequence of unresolved conflicts.
12. The siblings hoped to mend their estrangement.
13. Legal issues contributed to their business partner's estrangement.
14. Estrangement can result from prolonged disagreements.
15. The letter sought to address their estrangement.
16. Estrangement often involves feelings of isolation.
17. Their friendship ended in a bitter estrangement.
18. Estrangement can have lasting emotional effects.
19. A mediator can assist in resolving family estrangement.
20. Estrangement can lead to feelings of loneliness.
21. The therapist explored the causes of their estrangement.
22. They decided to seek therapy to heal their estrangement.
23. Estrangement can strain even the strongest relationships.
24. Estrangement can be a difficult process to navigate.
25. Reconciliation efforts aim to mend estrangement.