What does innocuous mean?

The term "innocuous" refers to something that is harmless or not likely to cause any adverse effects. In various contexts, it is often used to describe substances, actions, or remarks that do not pose a threat, risk, or danger to individuals or environments. For instance, in a medical setting, an innocuous substance would be one that is safe for consumption or exposure. This definition aligns closely with the choice of "harmless," which captures the essence of the word effectively.

Understanding the meaning of "innocuous" as harmless is vital in various fields, from medicine where the safety of drugs or treatments is paramount, to everyday conversations where one might describe a joke or comment as innocuous if it is not offensive or hurtful.