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
Examples of intolerance in a Sentence
a group whose mission is to oppose intolerance and extremism
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples might seem to highlight intolerance and suppressed speech on campus.
—
Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 15 May 2026
People with lactose intolerance experience digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming lactose-containing foods.
—Jillian Kubala, Health, 14 May 2026
Reed faced deserved backlash for cruel personal attacks, including fat-shaming comments about actress Melissa McCarthy, reflecting his intolerance for unconventional or avant-garde work.
—Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2026
Key Takeaways Iron deficiency is a common condition that can cause fatigue, exercise intolerance, and difficulty concentrating in women.
—Ayesha Gulzar, Verywell Health, 12 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for intolerance
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Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 15 May 2026
People with lactose intolerance experience digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming lactose-containing foods.
—Jillian Kubala, Health, 14 May 2026
Reed faced deserved backlash for cruel personal attacks, including fat-shaming comments about actress Melissa McCarthy, reflecting his intolerance for unconventional or avant-garde work.
—Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2026
Key Takeaways Iron deficiency is a common condition that can cause fatigue, exercise intolerance, and difficulty concentrating in women.
—Ayesha Gulzar, Verywell Health, 12 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for intolerance
Cite this Entry
“Intolerance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intolerance. Accessed 24 May. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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