benign

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   pleasant and beneficial in nature or influence

   a benign smile

2. 2
   adj

   kindness of disposition or manner

   the benign ruler of millions

3. 3
   adj

   Kind; gentle; mild.

   But though we both entertained these ideas, we differed in their application. Resentment added also a sting to my censure; and I reprobated Raymond's conduct in severe terms. Adrian was more benign, more considerate.

4. 4
   adj

   Not harmful to the environment.

   an ozone-benign refrigerant

5. 5
   adj

   Not posing any serious threat to health; not particularly aggressive or recurrent.

   a benign tumor

6. 6
   adj

   not dangerous to health

7. 7
   adj

   Mild and favorable.

Etymology

From Middle English benigne, benygne, from Old French benigne, from Latin benignus (“kind, good”), from bene (“well”) + genus (“origin, kind”). Compare malign.