intolerance

noun

in·​tol·​er·​ance (ˌ)in-ˈtä-lə-rən(t)s How to pronounce intolerance (audio)
-ˈtäl-rən(t)s
Synonyms of intolerancenext
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 of intolerance

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Examples of intolerance in a Sentence

a group whose mission is to oppose intolerance and extremism
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some scientists speculate that acetaldehyde might trigger a release of the immune-signalling chemical histamine, leading to alcohol-intolerance symptoms. — Shayla Love, New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2026 In recent years, white supremacists have embraced the concept of lactose intolerance as a distinguishing debility of nonwhite people. — Hilary Smith, The Conversation, 25 Aug. 2026 Consuming superpotent thyroid tablets can cause an overactive thyroid and issues like weight loss, heat intolerance, fatigue and hypertension, according to the notice. — Melina Khan, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026 Namely, people with coconut allergies should avoid coconut aminos, while soy sauce isn’t suitable for people with gluten intolerance, celiac disease, or soy or wheat allergies. — Merve Ceylan, HEALTH, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intolerance

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of intolerance was in 1765

Phrases Containing intolerance

Rhymes for intolerance

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Browse Nearby Words

intolerable
intolerance
intolerancy
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Cite this Entry

“Intolerance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intolerance. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

intolerance

noun
in·​tol·​er·​ance (ˈ)in-ˈtäl-(ə-)rən(t)s How to pronounce intolerance (audio)
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 How to pronounce intolerance (audio)
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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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