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

Your choice of milk depends on your nutritional needs, allergies, intolerances, and dietary preferences. —Angela Ryan Lee, Verywell Health, 30 Oct. 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

Kara opposes this hate group, fighting the calculated acts of disinformation, intolerance, and bigotry. —Sergio Pereira, Space.com, 29 Oct. 2025

While the presentation to the board that day was centered on an antisemitic act, board President Williams said the district’s intolerance for hate goes across the board. —Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 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