inoffensive

adjective

in·​of·​fen·​sive ˌin-ə-ˈfen(t)-siv How to pronounce inoffensive (audio)
Synonyms of inoffensivenext
1
: causing no harm or injury
2
a
: giving no provocation : peaceable
b
: not objectionable to the senses
inoffensively adverb
inoffensiveness noun

Synonyms of inoffensive

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The reaction of longtime fans to a packaging refresh tends to vary, but these new labels seem to be pretty inoffensive. — Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 9 Oct. 2026 Craven similarly replicates the formula of inoffensive statement versus misogynistic backlash. — Literary Hub, 5 Oct. 2026 We are born from the invention of the first inoffensive hair dye. — Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 2 Oct. 2026 Rather than evolve the rounded ones from the Bentayga, it's gone with a more inoffensive rectangular design, with slim daylight running lights at the top. — New Atlas, 26 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inoffensive

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of inoffensive was in 1646

Rhymes for inoffensive

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Browse Nearby Words

in-off
inoffensive
inofficial
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Cite this Entry

“Inoffensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inoffensive. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

inoffensive

adjective
in·​of·​fen·​sive ˌin-ə-ˈfen(t)-siv How to pronounce inoffensive (audio)
: not offensive or harmful
inoffensively adverb
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