Benign, a.
Etymology: [OE. benigne, bening, OF. benigne, F. bénin, fem. bénigne, 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.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for benign; he lists it under propitious.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.