Alien

Definition

Alien can function as a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a being from another planet or a foreign person in a country. As an adjective, it describes something foreign, unfamiliar, or originating from another world.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈeɪliən/
• Respelling: AY-lee-uhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈeɪliən/
• Respelling: AY-lee-uhn

The pronunciation of "alien" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "alien" originates from the Latin word "alienus," meaning "belonging to another" or "foreign," derived from "alius," meaning "other." It entered Middle English in the 14th century, initially referring to foreign nationals and later taking on the broader meanings of "extraterrestrial" and "unfamiliar."

Derivatives

• Alienate (verb)
• Alienation (noun)
• Alienable (adjective)
• Unalienable (adjective)
• Alienness (noun)

Synonyms

• Foreign
• Extraterrestrial
• Stranger

Antonyms

• Native
• Local
• Familiar

Usage

The term "alien" is widely used to describe beings from other planets in science fiction, as well as foreign nationals in legal and immigration contexts. For example, "The movie features an alien from a distant galaxy," or "The law addresses the rights of aliens residing in the country." The adjective form describes anything unfamiliar or foreign to a specific environment.

Related Terms

• Extraterrestrial: A being from outside Earth.
• Foreigner: A person from a different country.
• Immigrant: A person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A being from another planet: Refers to a creature or life form originating outside of Earth.
  • Example: "The film's plot revolves around an alien invasion."
• A foreign person in a country: Describes an individual from a different country residing in a place as a non-citizen.
  • Example: "The government introduced new policies for aliens seeking residency."

Adjective

• Foreign or unfamiliar: Describes something that is strange or different from one's own environment or experience.
  • Example: "The customs of the country were alien to her."
• Relating to beings from another world: Used to describe anything connected with extraterrestrial life.
  • Example: "Scientists study the possibility of alien life on distant planets."