intolerance

American  

[in-tol-er-uhns] / ɪnˈtɒl ər əns /

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.

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Etymology

Origin of intolerance

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

Example Sentences

When governments allow themselves to be drawn into war by intolerance or the arrogance of power, they plant the seeds of resentment that yield more hatred and violence.

From The Wall Street Journal

This discovery may also help explain a range of digestive issues, including food intolerances and irritable bowel syndrome.

From Science Daily

Since the mission is only a few weeks in, this isn’t necessarily unexpected, but its absence risks extending the mission to the point of intolerance for the American people.

From The Wall Street Journal

The case drew widespread attention and revived concerns that the department had failed to root out a culture of intolerance that led to past scandals.

From Los Angeles Times

His blind sides—inability to understand the limits of Japan’s resources, intolerance of criticism, confidence in a German victory—led Japan to disaster.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• bigotry
• prejudice