DictionarybrookTolerating
verb

brook

To tolerate or allow something objectionable.

The captain brooks no interference.

Etymology

The older verb concerns using or enjoying something. English developed a sense of accepting or enduring it, now chiefly found in statements refusing to tolerate something objectionable.

More examples

  • She brooked no delay.
  • They are brooking no excuses.
  • He would not brook an insult.

Forms

brook · brooks · brooked · brooking

Similar words

tolerate
The ordinary direct equivalent.
endure
Emphasizes bearing something difficult.