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Meaning of benign in English

  1. Pronunciation

    /bəˈnaɪn/

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  1. Classifying Adjective

    benign

    Definitions

    1. of disposition or manner

    Examples

    • « the benign ruler of millions »
    • « benign intentions »

    Synonyms

    • kind
  2. Qualitative Adjective

    benign

    Etymology

    Middle English: from Old French benigne, from Latin benignus, probably from bene‘well’ + -genus‘-born’. Compare with gentle

    Definitions

    1. not dangerous to health

    Examples

    • « not recurrent or progressive (especially of a tumor) »

    Antonyms

    • malignant
  3. 2. pleasant and beneficial in nature or influence

    Examples

    • « a benign smile »
    • « the benign sky »
    • « the benign influence of pure air »

    Synonyms

    • harmless
    • nonmalignant
    • kindly
    • genial
    • kind

    Antonyms

    • malign

See also

  • harmless
  • kind

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