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

Inside, attendees accused the protesters of liberal intolerance and perpetuating cancel culture. —Sacbee.com, 11 Nov. 2025

Nathan and everyone else here is ideally supportive; the sole negativity comes from the parents, who come off as rather one-dimensional caricatures of glint-eyed intolerance in their few scenes. —Dennis Harvey, Variety, 7 Nov. 2025

Both are generally safe, although kefir may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. —Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 5 Nov. 2025

The episode is dotted with telling references to Oklahoma’s notorious history of racial intolerance, but its central plotline is the fallout from Lee’s unforgivable blabbermouthing. —Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 29 Oct. 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