Harmless

/ˈhɑːrmləs/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
not causing or capable of causing harm; safe.
The snake was identified as harmless, so the children felt safe playing near it.
gentle and not likely to offend or provoke.
His joke was intended to be harmless, but it ended up upsetting a few people.
innocuous or lacking any dangerous properties.
The medicine is harmless when taken as directed.

Etymology

Middle English 'harmles', from 'harm' + '-less'

Common Phrases and Expressions

harmless prank
a joke that is not meant to hurt anyone
harmless fun
entertaining activities that do not cause any danger

Related Words

no harm
a phrase indicating that there is no injury or damage
harmlessness
the quality of being harmless

Slang Meanings

chill
It's just a harmless hangout, nothing serious.
low stakes
That game was just a harmless competition, all in good fun.