intolerance

noun

in·​tol·​er·​ance (ˌ)in-ˈtä-lə-rən(t)s How to pronounce intolerance (audio)
-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

Examples of intolerance in a Sentence

a group whose mission is to oppose intolerance and extremism
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
To me, that’s a sign of growing self-assurance, not intolerance. Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 22 Oct. 2025 Lactose is a type of sugar in butter and other dairy products that is difficult to digest in people with lactose intolerance. Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 21 Oct. 2025 The rising intolerance that results erodes social cohesion, undermines support for democratic norms and weakens trust in institutions. Andrew Rojecki, The Conversation, 21 Oct. 2025 The poll also found widespread misunderstanding about how common lactose intolerance is. Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for intolerance

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of intolerance was in 1765

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intolerance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intolerance. Accessed 25 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

intolerance

noun
in·​tol·​er·​ance (ˈ)in-ˈtäl-(ə-)rən(t)s How to pronounce intolerance (audio)
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 How to pronounce intolerance (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on intolerance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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