inoffensive

adjective

in·​of·​fen·​sive ˌin-ə-ˈfen(t)-siv 

1

: causing no harm or injury

2

a

: giving no provocation : peaceable

b

: not objectionable to the senses

inoffensively adverb

inoffensiveness noun

Synonyms

• anodyne
• benign
• harmless
• hurtless
• innocent
• innocuous
• safe
• white

Examples of inoffensive in a Sentence

The priest was a mild-mannered inoffensive fellow.

an inoffensive little joke at the opening of his speech

Recent Examples on the Web

In the immediate aftermath, Bree limits herself to inoffensive black dresses, jumpers and cardigans, before the muted colors of grief eventually give way — over several episodes — to a new vibrant wardrobe signaling an unveiling of sorts. —Jemal Polson, CNN, 3 Oct. 2024

Accelerator Photograph: Amazon Accelerator, Peach Paradise (12-Pack) $24 at Amazon Accelerator is an inoffensive and unassuming option for folks who don’t like brand names or flashy cans. —Pete Cottell, WIRED, 8 Aug. 2024

What little taste that’s there is very inoffensive. —Pete Cottell, WIRED, 8 Aug. 2024

Thelma generates clever, inoffensive fun from assorted elderly challenges. —Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 22 Jan. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

inoffensive

adjective

in·​of·​fen·​sive ˌin-ə-ˈfen(t)-siv 

: not offensive or harmful

inoffensively adverb