unthreatening
UK: ʌnˈθretnɪŋ | US: ʌnˈθretnɪŋ
adj. not likely to cause harm or fear; appearing safe or non-intimidating
The word "unthreatening" is formed by combining the prefix "un-" (meaning "not") with the verb "threaten" (derived from Old English "þreatian," meaning "to press or menace") and the suffix "-ing" (used to form present participles or adjectives). The prefix "un-" negates the base word, transforming "threatening" into its opposite. The root "threaten" itself evolved from Proto-Germanic "*thrautijaną," related to coercion or pressure. Over time, "unthreatening" came to describe anything that lacks aggression or danger, emphasizing safety or approachability.
The dog's unthreatening demeanor made the children feel at ease.
Her smile was warm and unthreatening, putting everyone in the room at ease.
The document used simple, unthreatening language to avoid alarming readers.
The neighborhood has an unthreatening atmosphere, perfect for evening walks.
His tone was deliberately unthreatening to avoid escalating the argument.