intolerance

[ in-tol-er-uhns ]

noun

1. lack of tolerance; unwillingness or refusal to tolerate or respect opinions or beliefs contrary to one's own.
2. unwillingness or refusal to tolerate or respect persons of a different social group, especially members of a minority group.
3. incapacity or indisposition to bear or endure:

   intolerance to heat.

4. abnormal sensitivity or allergy to a food, drug, etc.
5. an intolerant act.

Word History and Origins

Origin of intolerance¹

From the Latin word intolerantia, dating back to 1755–65. See intolerant, -ance

Example Sentences

During the late 1970s and early 80s, areas of Britain experienced increasing racial intolerance and violence, and in a period of just five months Coventry witnessed two racist killings, one attempted murder, several petrol bombings and numerous attacks.

From BBC

They rejected Proposition 8’s message of hate and intolerance, removed its language from our Constitution and officially renounced the lack of understanding and acceptance the state’s electorate showed in 2008.

From Los Angeles Times

Betsy was taken to A&E with stomach pain, and a food intolerance was suspected.

From BBC

Its latest report into racism and intolerance in the UK covers the period from 2018 to 2024.

From BBC

The European Commission against Racism and Intolerance is part of the Council of Europe, which has 47 members and was set up to promote democracy and human rights in Europe.

From BBC

Related Words

• bigotry
• prejudice