Definition

Something that is harmless and does not cause any injury or offense.

Example

The innocuous comment did not upset anyone in the meeting.

Conversation

Did you try that new restaurant in town?

Yeah, the food was innocuous but tasty enough.

I heard their dishes are pretty safe and not too spicy.

Exactly! It's a great place if you want something low-key.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Innocuous → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "nocuus" (from Latin "nocere", meaning to harm). The word "innocuous" means not harmful or not likely to cause injury.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') causing 'harm' ('nocere') — that's why innocuous means something that is not harmful.

Visually Confused Words