1. the ability or willingness to accept or endure different opinions, behaviors, or conditions without interference
2. the capacity to endure pain, hardship, or adverse conditions
3. allowable amounts of variation in dimensions, weight, or other measurements
Usage: technical; engineering

Examples

• The school promotes tolerances for different cultural backgrounds.
• Athletes build up tolerances to intense physical training over time.
• The machine parts must be manufactured within strict tolerances.
• His tolerances for spicy food increased after living in Mexico.
• Religious tolerances are essential for a peaceful society.
• The engineer checked the tolerances on all the measurements.
• Some people develop tolerances to certain medications quickly.