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

While the levels are much lower than in milk, people with severe lactose intolerance or dairy allergies may still react to it. —Allison Herries, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2025

Your eczema symptoms may start or get worse due to a food allergy or intolerance. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 30 Mar. 2025

Some individuals, particularly those with aspirin sensitivity, may experience allergic reactions or intolerance to tartrazine. —Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Mar. 2025

Politics, discrimination and intolerance are contributing to high rates of depression and anxiety among LGBTQ+ young people in Florida, per a new report. —Kathryn Varn, Axios, 20 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