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

This powerful coming-of-age documentary profiles these remarkable teenagers while also depicting the everyday advocacy that empowers individuals and stands up to intolerance. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 28 Sep. 2025

Attempting to do so would only make intolerance for dissent — and the violence that intolerance breeds — worse. —Michael Bloomberg, Twin Cities, 24 Sep. 2025

Fatigue, shortness of breath during activity, calf pain with walking, or unusual exercise intolerance may all signal cardiovascular issues. —Lauryn Higgins, Time, 17 Sep. 2025

The trend extends far beyond those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. —Dave Smith, Fortune, 16 Sep. 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