D
Dicread
HomeDictionaryTtolerate

tolerate

endure / permit / bear / stomach
Transitive Verb
past: toleratedpp: tolerateding: tolerating

This word conveys a sense of passive endurance or reluctant acceptance. It often implies a power dynamic where the subject has the authority to stop an action but chooses to let it continue, or a psychological state of bearing a burden without outward protest. In medical or biological contexts, the term shifts from a psychological or moral choice to a physiological capacity. It describes the body's ability to process a substance without triggering a negative reaction, such as an allergy or toxicity.

Meanings

Transitive Verb
[~ something][~ someone]

To allow the existence, occurrence, or presence of something that one does not like or agree with without interfering.

"The government refuses to tolerate any form of political violence."

Transitive Verb
[~ something]

To endure or put up with something unpleasant or difficult without complaining.

"I cannot tolerate the noise from the construction site next door."

Transitive Verb
[~ something]

To be able to endure a particular food, drug, or medical treatment without having an adverse reaction.

"Some people cannot tolerate lactose in dairy products."

Related Words

Last Updated: June 13, 2026Report an Error