Definition

This word describes something that does not cause disease or illness.

Example

The nonpathogenic bacteria in the yogurt are beneficial for digestion.

Conversation

Did you know that some bacteria are actually nonpathogenic?

Really? I always thought all bacteria were harmful.

Nope! Many of them are harmless and can even be beneficial.

That's interesting! I guess not everything is bad for us.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonpathogenic → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "pathogenic" (from Greek "pathos", meaning disease, and "genes", meaning born of or produced by). The word "nonpathogenic" means not produced by or causing disease.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning not, and 'pathogenic' relating to disease — so nonpathogenic refers to something that does not cause disease.

Visually Confused Words