tolerance Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the power or capacity of an organism to tolerate unfavorable environmental conditions
  2. noun a disposition to allow freedom of choice and behavior
    permissiveness.
  3. noun the act of tolerating something
  4. noun willingness to recognize and respect the beliefs or practices of others
  5. noun a permissible difference; allowing some freedom to move within limits
    margin; leeway; allowance.

WordNet

Tol"er*ance noun
Etymology
L. tolerantia: cf. F. tolérance.
Definitions
  1. The power or capacity of enduring; the act of enduring; endurance.
    Diogenes, one frosty morning, came into the market place,shaking, to show his tolerance. Bacon.
  2. The endurance of the presence or actions of objectionable persons, or of the expression of offensive opinions; toleration.
  3. (Med.) The power possessed or acquired by some persons of bearing doses of medicine which in ordinary cases would prove injurious or fatal.

Webster 1913