benign

Adjective
Synonyms: benignant

WordNet 3.0

Adjective (3)

  1. not dangerous to health; not recurrent or progressive (especially of a tumor)
  2. pleasant and beneficial in nature or influence“a benign smile”“the benign sky”“the benign influence of pure air”Synonyms: benignant
  3. kindness of disposition or manner“the benign ruler of millions”“benign intentions”
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Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

Benign \Be*nign"\, a. [OE. benigne, bening, OF. benigne, F. b['e]nin, fem. b['e]nigne, 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. [1913 Webster]

Creator bounteous and benign.— Milton.[1913 Webster]

2.Exhibiting or manifesting kindness, gentleness, favor, etc.; mild; kindly; salutary; wholesome. [1913 Webster]

Kind influences and benign aspects.— South.[1913 Webster]

3.Of a mild type or character; as, a benign disease. [1913 Webster]

Syn: Kind; propitious; bland; genial; salubrious; favorable salutary; gracious; liberal. [1913 Webster]

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