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
• dogmatism
• illiberalism
• illiberality
• illiberalness
• intolerantness
• narrow-mindedness
• opinionatedness
• partisanship
• sectarianism
• small-mindedness

Examples of intolerance in a Sentence

a group whose mission is to oppose intolerance and extremism

Recent Examples on the Web

Biodiversity also helps protect against disease, drought intolerance and promotes better soil health. —Andrew Watman, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025

By Sara Coughlin Since most day-to-day bloating isn’t caused by a food intolerance, an elimination diet probably won’t benefit you much. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 28 Apr. 2025

Diet should be personalized and consider allergies or intolerances, said Boston University professor Joan Salge Blake, adding that guidance from a professional is highly recommended. —Mark Weinstein, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Apr. 2025

Signs of a garlic intolerance (or any food intolerance) are less serious than those of an allergy. —Laura Dorwart, Verywell Health, 15 Apr. 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