alien

word

/ˈeɪɫiən/
AY-lee-uhn
/ˈeɪliən/
AY-lee-uhn

Definition

An alien is a creature from another planet or, in formal or legal use, a person from another country. It can also describe something that feels strange or unfamiliar.

Usage & Nuances

The most common everyday meaning is 'creature from space'. In legal or official contexts, 'alien' for a foreign national exists but often sounds formal, old-fashioned, or impersonal; 'foreigner', 'immigrant', or more specific terms are often preferred. As an adjective, common patterns include 'alien planet', 'alien life', and 'feel alien to me'.

Example Sentences

The office culture felt completely alien at first, but I got used to it.

natural

The movie is about an alien from Mars.

basic

Some of these plants look alien to me.

basic

In that old law, an alien means a person from another country.

basic

If we ever find alien life, it will change science forever.

natural

The idea of living alone in the mountains isn't alien to him at all.

natural