benign
AdjectiveUS[bih-nahyn]/bɪˈnaɪn/2 syllables
Synonyms:
benignant
Open English WordNet
Adjective (3)
- not dangerous to health; not recurrent or progressive (especially of a tumor)Opposite malignant
- pleasant and beneficial in nature or influence“a benign smile”“the benign sky”“the benign influence of pure air”Synonyms: benignantOpposite malignSimilar kindlyRelates to benignity, benignancySee also harmless, kind
- kindness of disposition or manner“the benign ruler of millions”“benign intentions”Opposite unkindSimilar kind
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ephemeranoun
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Webster's Dictionary (1913)
Be·nign′ (…), adjective
Origin: OE. benigne, bening, OF. benigne, F. bénin, fem. bénigne, fr. L. benignus, contr. from benigenus; bonus good + root of genus kind. See Bounty, and Genus.
1. Of a kind or gentle disposition; gracious; generous; favorable; benignant.
Creator bounteous and benign.— John Milton
2. Exhibiting or manifesting kindness, gentleness, favor, etc.; mild; kindly; salutary; wholesome.
Kind influences and benign aspects.— Robert South
3. Of a mild type or character; as, a benign disease.
Synonyms: Kind; propitious; bland; genial; salubrious; favorable salutary; gracious; liberal.
Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913), from GCIDE 0.54