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

The cause of fructose intolerance depends on the specific type. —Devineé Lingo, M.s., Health, 1 Nov. 2024

An intolerance for difference in some people pushes the child away more, further isolating them. —Jothy Rosenberg, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024

Enzyme supplements aren’t necessary in most cases, but they can be used to help with lactose intolerance or digestion in those with cystic fibrosis.2 Only one type of enzyme supplement—called pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT)—is available. —Kelly Burch Published, Verywell Health, 22 Oct. 2024

The permissiveness of college administrators in their tolerance for intolerance against free speech on campus has degraded free-speech protections dramatically. —Tyson Langhofer, National Review, 21 Oct. 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