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

• 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

The nearly 20 food and drink stalls can satisfy vegans, those with gluten intolerance and meat-eaters alike. —The Denver Post, Denver Post, 1 Aug. 2025

Part of that reminder comes from learning how to view others not through a lens of intolerance and hate and disgruntlement, but through a lens of empathy and unity and peacemaking. —EW.com, 25 July 2025

Heat intolerance can result in heat stress and heat stroke, which decreases stroke volume, cardiac output and muscle blood flow, according to medical research. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 July 2025

The march brought together thousands of advocates for LGBTQ rights in a country where marked intolerance toward the community is largely attributed to the church's cultural influence. —June 28, CBS News, 28 June 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