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

Davis-Urman also told CNBC that Barrière is also launching into 1,700 Walmart stores with its two newest offerings, including a motion sickness patch and what the company said is the first-ever lactose intolerance patch on the market. —Laya Neelakandan, CNBC, 6 May 2026

Barrière is launching the world’s first lactose intolerance patch. —Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 6 May 2026

Decades of legal intolerance have steadily eroded the user base and cultural support that justified legality in the first place. —Charles Fain Lehman, The Atlantic, 4 May 2026

Besides presenting a wide range of arts and entertainment, the event is meant to generate a spirit of global togetherness at a time when some are embracing isolationism and intolerance. —Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 30 Apr. 2026

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