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

Critics said that his case reflected Beijing’s emphasis on security and intolerance of dissent, even though Macao’s pro-democracy movement has never been as influential as that in neighboring Hong Kong. — Kanis Leung, Los Angeles Times, 6 Nov. 2026

And because so many Montreal chefs have passed through Morin’s kitchens, his influence looms large over the city’s fine dining scene—and its spirit of hospitality toward those with allergies and intolerances. — Luke Pyenson, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Nov. 2026

For example, whey is made from milk and can cause digestive upset for people with lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivities. — Maggie Donahue, HEALTH, 5 Nov. 2026

This explains why my breakdown happened during perimenopause along with the unfortunate timing of a lactose intolerance diagnosis (bye-bye, calcium-rich dairy). — Cheryl Fenton, Flow Space, 27 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing intolerance

• food intolerance

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