Definition

Referring to a growth or condition that is not harmful or cancerous.

Example

The doctor assured me that the tumor was nonmalignant and posed no threat to my health.

Conversation

I just got my test results back, and thankfully, the growth is nonmalignant.

That's a relief! I'm glad to hear it's not cancerous.

Yeah, I was really worried for a while.

I can only imagine. It's great news overall!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonmalignant → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "malignant" (from Latin "malignus", meaning harmful or evil). The word "nonmalignant" means not harmful or not cancerous.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning not, and 'malignant' meaning harmful — so nonmalignant refers to something that is not harmful.

Visually Confused Words