A semiconductor device includes a layer of semiconductor material having an active transistor region defined therein, an isolation trench formed in the semiconductor material adjacent the active transistor region, and a trench liner lining the isolation trench, wherein the trench liner is formed from a material that substantially inhibits formation of high-k material thereon, and wherein the isolation trench and the trench liner together form a lined trench. The device has an insulating material in the lined trench, and high-k gate material overlying at least a portion of the insulating material and overlying at least a portion of the active transistor region, such that the trench liner divides and separates the high-k gate material overlying the at least a portion of the insulating material from the high-k gate material overlying the at least a portion of the active transistor region.