Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Benign \Be*nign"\, a. [OE. benigne, bening, OF. benigne, F.
   b['e]nin, fem. b['e]nigne, fr. L. benignus, contr. from
   benigenus; bonus good + root of genus kind. See {Bounty}, and
   {Genus}.]
   1. Of a kind or gentle disposition; gracious; generous;
      favorable; benignant.

            Creator bounteous and benign.         --Milton.

   2. Exhibiting or manifesting kindness, gentleness, favor,
      etc.; mild; kindly; salutary; wholesome.

            Kind influences and benign aspects.   --South.

   3. Of a mild type or character; as, a benign disease.

   Syn: Kind; propitious; bland; genial; salubrious; favorable
        salutary; gracious; liberal.

Source : WordNet®

benign
     adj 1: not dangerous to health; not recurrent or progressive
            (especially of a tumor) [ant: {malignant}]
     2: pleasant and beneficial in nature or influence; "a benign
        smile"; "the benign sky"; "the benign influence of pure
        air" [syn: {benignant}] [ant: {malign}]
     3: of disposition or manner; "the benign ruler of millions";
        "benign intentions"