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
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of benign
Da Silva had been diagnosed with a benign pituitary tumor prior to her UFC 316 fight camp, which resulted in her team moving to a new nutritionist to help with the weight cut.
—
Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025
There’s a subtle sense that taking pleasure in domesticity might be a betrayal of my values—as if nurturing children, or even enjoying something as benign as baking, plays into oppressive tropes.
—Samantha Mann, Time, 5 June 2025
Medical advisory panels view PSA screening with skepticism partly due to the challenges of distinguishing benign PSA elevations from those related to cancer.
—Daniel J. Stone, Twin Cities, 4 June 2025
The run of play seemed benign — rookie defender Ian Pilcher, 21, herding the ball in San Diego’s defensive half.
—Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for benign
Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025
There’s a subtle sense that taking pleasure in domesticity might be a betrayal of my values—as if nurturing children, or even enjoying something as benign as baking, plays into oppressive tropes.
—Samantha Mann, Time, 5 June 2025
Medical advisory panels view PSA screening with skepticism partly due to the challenges of distinguishing benign PSA elevations from those related to cancer.
—Daniel J. Stone, Twin Cities, 4 June 2025
The run of play seemed benign — rookie defender Ian Pilcher, 21, herding the ball in San Diego’s defensive half.
—Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for benign
Recent Examples of Synonyms for benign
Adjective
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The grunting, the couple now know, was not harmless.—
Daniella Gray,
MSNBC Newsweek,
6 July 2025
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For most people, drinking a concoction of OJ, coconut water and pink salt is pretty darn harmless and could even be beneficial.—
Bruce Y. Lee,
Forbes.com,
5 July 2025
Adjective
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Hand wash with gentle soap and cold water, avoiding soaking, and use a mesh bag if machine washing is necessary.—
Gabi De la Rosa,
Southern Living,
5 July 2025
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The sunrise alarm clock gradually brightens your room with a simulated sunrise for a gentle wake-up.—
Nora Colomer
may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom.,
FOXNews.com,
5 July 2025
Adjective
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However, knowing her son will be safe gives her peace of mind.—
Ella Gonzales,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
30 June 2025
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The advisory is in effect until 11 p.m. Recommendations from the NWS for staying safe during a flood For either residents or campers of flood-prone, low-lying areas, take immediate action and seek higher ground.—
NC Weather Bot,
Charlotte Observer,
30 June 2025
Adjective
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Our Reading Accent Chair is a must, with fabric and color options available in delicate Cream Linen or soothing Olive Green.—
Sophia Beams,
Better Homes & Gardens,
25 June 2025
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For many aging pets, car rides can be a soothing and enjoyable outing.—
Lydia Patrick,
MSNBC Newsweek,
24 June 2025
Adjective
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The finish is sleek with a soft sheen, and a subtle silver mountain logo sits just below the stainless steel rim.—
Lauren Thomann,
Better Homes & Gardens,
8 July 2025
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For ultimate comfort, the loveseat and chairs also include 3.9-inch foam cushions wrapped in soft cotton.—
Alicia Geigel,
Southern Living,
8 July 2025
Adjective
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Possible side effects of the vaccine, which the CDC says are usually mild, include soreness, redness or swelling; fever; mild rash; and temporary pain and stiffness in the joints.—
Jenny Porter Tilley,
IndyStar,
11 July 2025
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Country Music Hall of Famer Ray Stevens, 86, underwent successful heart surgery after a mild heart attack.—
Marcus K. Dowling,
The Tennessean,
11 July 2025
Adjective
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Djo skates between falsetto and mellow, talky vocals with moments of funky, emphatic annunciation.—
airmail.news,
airmail.news,
5 July 2025
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Claire Riley, who just graduated from Amundsen, was leading a band from the School of Rock in singing mellow renditions of Avril Lavigne and Melissa Etheridge hits.—
Sophie Levenson,
Chicago Tribune,
4 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Benign.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/benign. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.
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