Benignity, n.
Etymology: [OE. benignite, F. bénignité, OF. bénigneté, fr. L. benignitas. See Benign.]
1. The quality of being benign; goodness; kindness; graciousness. "Benignity of aspect." Sir W. Scott.
2. Mildness; gentleness. The benignity or inclemency of the season. Spectator.
3. Salubrity; wholesome quality. Wiseman.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for benignity; he lists it under benevolence, mercy.
Where he writes about it:
Benignity suggests some occult power of blessing, such as was formerly ascribed to the stars; we may say a good man has an air of benignity. — from benevolence