tolerant
UK: ˈtɒlərənt | US: ˈtɑːlərənt
adj. willing to accept or endure opinions, behaviors, or beliefs that differ from one's own
adj. capable of withstanding or enduring adverse conditions (e.g., plants tolerant of drought)
The word tolerant traces back to Latin tolerare, meaning "to bear" or "endure." Over time, it evolved into Old French tolerer and Middle English toleraten, retaining its core sense of endurance. The suffix -ant was added to form an adjective, shifting the focus from the act of enduring to the quality of being open-minded or resilient. This reflects a societal shift toward valuing patience and acceptance in interpersonal and ecological contexts.
She is tolerant of her neighbors' loud music, even though it bothers her.
The plant is highly tolerant of extreme temperatures.
A tolerant society embraces diversity and encourages dialogue.
His tolerant attitude made him popular among colleagues with differing views.
Some bacteria have become tolerant to antibiotics over time.