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Alien Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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alien

[ˈeɪ.liən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

outer space

A being from another planet or galaxy, often depicted as having a humanoid appearance and advanced technology. Aliens are a common theme in science fiction.

Synonyms

ET, Martian, extraterrestrial.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alien

This term can be used generally to describe any being from another planet or space. It is also used in legal or social contexts to refer to foreigners or outsiders.

  • The movie features a friendly alien who crash-lands on Earth.
  • She felt like an alien in a foreign country, struggling with the language and customs.
extraterrestrial

This is a formal term used mainly in scientific discussions, literature, or serious conversations about life beyond Earth.

  • Scientists are constantly searching for extraterrestrial life.
  • The debate about the existence of extraterrestrial beings continues.
ET

ET is a colloquial, friendly abbreviation for 'extraterrestrial,' popularized by the movie 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial'. Typically used in informal contexts or when referring to friendly extraterrestrial beings.

  • The kids claimed to have seen an ET in the backyard.
  • Do you remember watching ET as a child?
Martian

Use this term specifically to refer to beings from Mars. It's often used in science fiction or discussions about the planet Mars.

  • The novel is about a Martian invasion on Earth.
  • The rover is designed to search for signs of Martian life.

Examples of usage

  • Many people believe that aliens have visited Earth in UFOs.
  • Scientists are searching for signs of alien life on other planets.
Context #2 | Adjective

unfamiliar

Unfamiliar or strange in a way that seems foreign or not of this world. Can also refer to something or someone who is not part of one's usual environment.

Synonyms

foreign, strange, unfamiliar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alien

Also used to describe someone or something belonging to a foreign country or nation; it can have a negative or exclusionary connotation.

  • He felt like an alien in his own company after the new management took over
  • Immigration laws often refer to non-citizens as aliens
foreign

Appropriate for anything related to another country, such as travel, policy, or languages.

  • She developed a taste for foreign cuisine after traveling through Europe
  • The diplomat specialized in foreign affairs
strange

Used to describe something odd, unusual, or difficult to understand, often creating a sense of curiosity or discomfort.

  • He had a strange feeling that someone was watching him
  • The book has a really strange ending
unfamiliar

Refers to something not known, recognized, or experienced before. It may involve a sense of discomfort or uncertainty.

  • She felt nervous walking through the unfamiliar streets
  • The software interface was unfamiliar to the new employees

Examples of usage

  • The concept of time travel seems alien to most people.
  • Her new job felt alien to her, as she was used to working in a different industry.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Films like 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial' and 'Alien' shaped modern portrayals of aliens as either friendly beings or dangerous monsters.
  • In comic books and cartoons, aliens often have exaggerated features, like green skin or antennae, making them memorable and relatable.
  • The idea of aliens has inspired countless conspiracy theories and futuristic stories, making them a staple in science fiction.

Science

  • Astrobiology is a scientific field that studies the possibility of alien life beyond Earth, exploring extreme environments where life could exist.
  • SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) uses radio telescopes to listen for signals from potential alien civilizations.
  • Mars and Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, are considered prime candidates for hosting alien life due to their potential for subsurface water.

Psychology

  • The fear of aliens, or 'xenophobia', can be linked to the fear of the unknown, leading to anxiety about what is different.
  • People are often drawn to the idea of aliens as a way to explore existence and life beyond our planet, reflecting human curiosity.
  • Beliefs about aliens can influence social behaviors and cultural narratives, often exposing societal concerns about technology and otherness.

Literature

  • In classics like H.G. Wells's 'The War of the Worlds', aliens are depicted as invaders, reflecting society's fears during the industrial revolution.
  • Many science fiction writers use alien characters to critique human society, highlighting flaws through an outsider's perspective.
  • The theme of alien encounters explores themes of identity, belonging, and the nature of humanity itself.

Origin of 'alien'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'alien' comes from the Latin word 'alienus', meaning 'belonging to another'.
  • It has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to foreign entities or things.
  • Initially, it described people who were not natives of a country before expanding to mean extraterrestrial beings.

The word 'alien' originated in the 14th century from the Latin word 'alienus', meaning 'belonging to another'. Over time, the term expanded to refer to beings from other planets or galaxies in the context of science fiction. The concept of aliens has captured human imagination for centuries, with various myths and legends depicting encounters with extraterrestrial beings.

See also: alienable, alienate, alienated, alienation.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,677, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.