innocuous
2 synonyms and 1 antonym for innocuous, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Not harmful; unlikely to cause damage or upset.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use innocuous
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
innocuous remark
seemingly innocuous
innocuous substance
Etymology
From Latin innocuus, "harmless" — in- ("not") plus nocuus ("harmful").
Full origin of innocuous →Frequently asked questions
What does “innocuous” mean?
The word “innocuous” means not harmful; unlikely to cause damage or upset. In plain terms, so mild or harmless that it barely registers.
How do you pronounce “innocuous”?
“Innocuous” is pronounced ih-NOK-yoo-uhs (/ɪˈnɑkjuəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “innocuous” in a sentence?
Here is “innocuous” used in a sentence: “It seemed like an innocuous comment, but it started an argument.”
What part of speech is “innocuous”?
“Innocuous” is an adjective.
Where does the word “innocuous” come from?
The word “innocuous” comes from Latin. From Latin innocuus, "harmless" — in- ("not") plus nocuus ("harmful").
