Noah Webster
Benign
BENI'GN, adjective beni'ne. [Latin benignus, from the same root, as bonus, bene, ancient Latin benus, Eng. boon.]
1. Kind; of a kind disposition; gracious; favorable.
Our Creator, bounteous and benign
2. Generous; liberal; as a benign benefactor.
3. Favorable; having a salutary influence; as the benign aspect of the seasons.
The benign light of revelation.
4. Wholesome; not pernicious; as a benign medicine.
5. Favorable; not malignant; as a benign disease.