1
as in harmless
not causing or being capable of causing injury or hurt
around campus he's known as a real character, but one whose eccentricities are entirely benign
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in gentle
not harsh or stern especially in nature or effect
basking under a benign sun on a day in early spring
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of benign
Some app features that may seem benign to adults (Instagram close friends or location sharing come to mind) can feel very different for teens, Weinstein explained.
—
Anna North, Vox, 15 May 2025
These findings highlight how humor isn’t always benign.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
Black hairy tongue is a benign condition characterized by an abnormal coating of carpet-like papillae on the top surface of the tongue.9
Accidental ingestion during gargling: Hydrogen peroxide solutions up to 9% are usually safe to consume if swallowed while gargling.
—Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 12 May 2025
Some people see gentle needling as the same as a compliment or benign conversation.
—R. Eric Thomas, Mercury News, 13 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for benign
Anna North, Vox, 15 May 2025
These findings highlight how humor isn’t always benign.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
Black hairy tongue is a benign condition characterized by an abnormal coating of carpet-like papillae on the top surface of the tongue.9
Accidental ingestion during gargling: Hydrogen peroxide solutions up to 9% are usually safe to consume if swallowed while gargling.
—Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 12 May 2025
Some people see gentle needling as the same as a compliment or benign conversation.
—R. Eric Thomas, Mercury News, 13 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for benign
Recent Examples of Synonyms for benign
Adjective
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Selling such toys violates a New York law inspired by police encounters that have resulted in fatalities because the guns, though harmless, look like actual firearms.—
Ross O'Keefe,
The Washington Examiner,
27 May 2025
-
Researchers believe many cases go unnoticed because the condition is harmless.—
Brandi Jones,
Health,
23 May 2025
Adjective
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The two-piece gown featured a sculpted bodice with a gentle curve at the neckline and a drop waist that nodded to early 2000s silhouettes.—
Karissa Mitchell,
Essence,
30 May 2025
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Establishing a calming bedtime routine, like gentle brushing or massage, can also help to cue bedtime and reduce nighttime barking.—
Maria Azzurra Volpe,
MSNBC Newsweek,
30 May 2025
Adjective
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If the sky becomes threatening and thunder can be heard, find a safe place to shelter.—
CA Weather Bot,
Sacbee.com,
25 May 2025
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In healthy cultures, people feel safe to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and explore new ideas.—
Dr. Diane Hamilton,
Forbes.com,
25 May 2025
Adjective
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As soothing as that may sound, fun is really the theme.—
Caron Golden,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
31 May 2025
-
To help replenish healthy-looking skin while preventing irritation from the potent star ingredient, there’s a soothing and moisturizing blend of hyaluronic acid and shea butter.—
Deanna Pai,
Glamour,
28 May 2025
Adjective
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The interior of my bZ Limited was comfortable, trimmed in appealing soft materials and roomy.—
Mark Phelan,
USA Today,
2 June 2025
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While investors remain hopeful for a soft landing for the U.S. economy, how severe could the situation become if another recession occurs?—
Trefis Team,
Forbes.com,
2 June 2025
Adjective
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Much of Drive-Away Dolls could be described as mild.—
Alison Willmore,
Vulture,
23 May 2025
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Most people with mild symptoms can manage their illness at home with rest, fluids, and OTC medicine.—
Lindsay Curtis,
Health,
22 May 2025
Adjective
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Turns out, pro-level mountain running on rugged terrain is quite a bit different than x collegiate trail running on more mellow courses..—
Andy Wacker,
Outside Online,
18 May 2025
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Butter yellow is everywhere—from runways to celebrity homes—but there’s something undeniably comforting (and nostalgic) about this mellow hue.—
Lauren Jones,
Southern Living,
9 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Benign.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/benign. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.
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