Estranged/ɪˈstreɪndʒd/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Distance Used to describe relationships that have emotionally cooled or turned indifferent. She felt estranged from her sister after the argument. Pro Tip 2/3Physical Separation Often implies living apart, especially for estranged spouses. The estranged husband moved to another city. Pro Tip 3/3Long-Term Issues Usually indicates a long-lasting issue, not a temporary disagreement. Their estranged relationship stemmed from a childhood rivalry.