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

Lactose Intolerance People with lactose intolerance cannot consume many types of dairy. —Allison Herries, Verywell Health, 10 Feb. 2025

The Rise of a New Counterculture in College Despite the normalization of intolerance and a culture of fear, the picture on college campuses is becoming more complicated . —Manu Meel, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025

With less lactose than regular, unstrained yogurts, both Greek yogurt and skyr might be suitable for some people with lactose intolerance, but not necessarily for all. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 3 Feb. 2025

Vegans and people with lactose intolerance use it as a healthy alternative to dairy. —Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 3 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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