Langimage
English

tolerate

|tol-er-ate|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈtɑːləˌreɪt/

🇬🇧

/ˈtɒləˌreɪt/

endure or allow

Etymology
Etymology Information

'tolerate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'tolerare,' where 'toler-' meant 'to bear or endure.'

Historical Evolution

'tolerare' transformed into the Old French word 'tolerer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'tolerate' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to bear or endure,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to allow the existence, occurrence, or practice of something that one does not necessarily like or agree with without interference.

She could not tolerate his rudeness any longer.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to endure or resist the action of a drug, poison, or other substance without adverse effects.

The patient can tolerate the medication well.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35