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

Advocates of raw milk make other arguments too: that skipping the pasteurization process can cure lactose intolerance, prevent osteoporosis, and provide superior nutrition, all claims the FDA and others dispute. —Jeffrey Kluger, TIME, 20 Dec. 2024

And here’s a bonus for travelers with celiac or gluten intolerance: this ancient bread is naturally gluten free. —Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Dec. 2024

In addition to allergy concerns, milk poses a risk for people with lactose intolerance, which is an inability to properly digest a type of sugar present in dairy products. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 17 Dec. 2024

Food intolerances: People with sensitivities or intolerances to certain foods, including dairy, gluten, and eggs, may be more likely to develop IBS.19 14 Infections: A history of severe gastrointestinal bacterial infection increases the risk of IBS. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 15 Dec. 2024

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