intolerance

noun

in·​tol·​er·​ance (ˌ)in-ˈtä-lə-rən(t)s 

-ˈtäl-rən(t)s

1

: the quality or state of being intolerant

2

: exceptional sensitivity (as to a drug)

specifically : inability to properly metabolize or absorb a substance

Synonyms of intolerance

• bigotry
• prejudice
• dogmatism
• sectarianism
• illiberality
• narrow-mindedness
• illiberalism
• bias
• partisanship

Examples of intolerance in a Sentence

a group whose mission is to oppose intolerance and extremism

Recent Examples on the Web

Rather than join in the bitter denunciations raging between Protestants and Catholics, Castellio condemned intolerance itself. —Michael Bruening, The Conversation, 3 Dec. 2025

People with celiac disease and gluten intolerance must avoid foods that contain wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. —Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 29 Nov. 2025

The United States is at its best and most prosperous when creative freedom rings, knowledge is shared and intolerance finds no shelter. —Leslie Fields-Cruz, IndieWire, 27 Nov. 2025

Is the Joining a cure for lactose intolerance? —Scott Tobias, Vulture, 26 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for intolerance

• tolerance

Kids Definition

intolerance

noun

in·​tol·​er·​ance (ˈ)in-ˈtäl-(ə-)rən(t)s 

1

: the quality or state of being intolerant

2

: exceptional sensitivity (as to a drug or food)

Medical Definition

intolerance

noun

in·​tol·​er·​ance (ˈ)in-ˈtäl(-ə)-rən(t)s 

1

: lack of an ability to endure

an intolerance to light

2

: exceptional sensitivity (as to a food or drug)

specifically : inability to properly metabolize or absorb a substance

glucose intolerance