phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

The Phrase Finder
Phrases, Sayings and Idioms Home > Discussion Forum

- We are also on

A Phrase A Week - Facebook Group & Follow aphraseaweek on Twitter

Re: Suffering fools

Posted by Bruce Kahl on January 16, 2000

In Reply to: Suffering fools posted by Jessica on January 16, 2000

: I was wondering if anyone knows the origin and meaning of the phrase "i don't suffer fools gladly"

The phrase refers to putting up with or having tolerance for the antics or nuances of people. However, I don't know the history of the phrase or what century in which it was first used or coined.
Personally, the only "fools" I will "suffer" are my teenage children and very close friends.