Emily Dickinson Lexicon

BE-NIGN', a. [beni'ne; L. benignus, from the same root as bonus, bene, ancient L. benus, Eng. boon.]

1. Kind; of a kind disposition; gracious; favorable. Our Creator, bounteous and benign. – Milton.
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. – Washington.
4. Wholesome; not pernicious; as, a benign medicine. – Arbuthnot.
5. Favorable; not malignant; as, a benign disease.