alien, alienist, alienate

An alien is a foreigner, someone born in or belonging to another country: "He was an alien for ten years and then became a naturalized citizen." The term is also applied to one who is excluded in some way (that is, is an outsider) and to matters that are strange or unfamiliar: "He was forced to adjust to an alien culture." "In his ragged clothing, he felt an alien in such plush surroundings." An alienist is a medically trained person who gives testimony (legal evidence) on questions of sanity and insanity: "Opposing alienists will testify at this murder trial." Alienate means "to turn away," "to affect by causing an atmosphere of unfriendliness," "to make indifferent": "His constant rudeness alienated most of his friends." Alien, alienist, and alienate imply or suggest either difference or opposition.