intolerance
UK: ɪnˈtɒlərəns | US: ɪnˈtɑːlərəns
n. unwillingness to accept views, beliefs, or behavior that differ from one's own
n. inability to endure or resist a substance, condition, or treatment (e.g., medical context)
intolerance = in<not> + toler<endure> + ance<noun suffix>
- in-: Prefix meaning "not" (from Latin in-).
- toler-: Root meaning "endure" or "bear" (from Latin tolerare).
- -ance: Noun suffix indicating a state or quality (from Latin -antia).
Etymology Origin:
The word "intolerance" originates from Latin intolerantia, combining in- (negation) + tolerare (to endure). It initially described physical incapacity to endure (e.g., pain or medicine) and later expanded to societal contexts, reflecting refusal to accept differences. The morphemes logically progress from "not enduring" to a broader ideological or physiological rejection.
Religious intolerance has fueled conflicts throughout history.
Her lactose intolerance prevents her from consuming dairy products.
The policy was criticized for promoting intolerance toward minority groups.
His intolerance for noise made city life unbearable.
The plant shows intolerance to extreme cold temperatures.