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

Three-quarters of American Orthodox Jews identify as Republican, and a recent study by the Orthodox Union suggests that the movement’s intolerance of LGBTQ+ people is a significant factor in why people leave the Orthodox community. —Jackie Hajdenberg, Sun Sentinel, 25 Mar. 2025

For patients who experience intolerance to standard dosages, Hurtado said she’s tried to use lower doses, at 0.125 mg semaglutide and 1.25 mg tirzepatide. —Fran Kritz, Verywell Health, 21 Mar. 2025

Upon returning to Earth, some astronauts experience orthostatic intolerance, the difficulty or inability to stand or walk as a result of light headedness or fainting, according to NASA. —Greta Cross, USA TODAY, 18 Mar. 2025

This theory can explain why many people with long Covid experience cognitive issues, fatigue and exercise intolerance, Koralnik said. —Katie Camero, NBC News, 11 Mar. 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