Benign: meaning, definitions and examples

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benign

[ bɪˈnaɪn ]

^{Context #1}

medical

Gentle, kind, and harmless. Not causing harm or damage.

Synonyms

gentle, harmless, innocuous, mild

Examples of usage

The tumor was found to be benign and did not require immediate treatment.
Despite his intimidating appearance, the man had a benign personality.
She had a benign smile on her face as she greeted her guests.

^{Context #2}

general

Not dangerous or harmful in effect.

Synonyms

friendly, innocent, non-threatening, safe

Examples of usage

The spider in the corner was benign and posed no threat to the inhabitants of the house.
His intentions were benign, even though they may have been misunderstood.

Translations

Translations of the word "benign" in other languages:

🇵🇹 benigno

🇮🇳 सौम्य

🇩🇪 gutartig

🇮🇩 jinak

🇺🇦 доброякісний

🇵🇱 łagodny

🇯🇵 良性

🇫🇷 bénin

🇪🇸 benigno

🇹🇷 iyi huylu

🇰🇷 양성

🇸🇦 حميد

🇨🇿 benigní

🇸🇰 benígny

🇨🇳 良性

🇸🇮 benigen

🇮🇸 góðkynja

🇰🇿 қатерсіз

🇬🇪 კეთილთვისებიანი

🇦🇿 xoşxassəli

🇲🇽 benigno

Word origin

The word 'benign' comes from the Latin word 'benignus', meaning 'kind' or 'gentle'. It has been used in English since the late 15th century to describe things that are gentle, harmless, or not causing harm. Over time, its usage has extended to medical contexts to describe non-threatening conditions or growths.