'benign neglect' definitions:

Definition of 'benign neglect'

From: GCIDE
  • Neglect \Neg*lect"\, n. [L. neglectus. See Neglect, v.]
  • 1. Omission of proper attention; avoidance or disregard of duty, from heedlessness, indifference, or willfulness; failure to do, use, or heed anything; culpable disregard; as, neglect of business, of health, of economy. [1913 Webster]
  • To tell thee sadly, shepherd, without blame, Or our neglect, we lost her as we came. --Milton. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Omission of attention or civilities; slight; as, neglect of strangers. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. Habitual carelessness; negligence. [1913 Webster]
  • Age breeds neglect in all. --Denham. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. The state of being disregarded, slighted, or neglected. [1913 Webster]
  • Rescue my poor remains from vile neglect. --Prior. [1913 Webster]
  • Syn: Negligence; inattention; disregard; disesteem; remissness; indifference. See Negligence. [1913 Webster]
  • benign neglect A deliberate policy of minimizing public discussion of a controversial issue [e.g. by the president] on the theory that excessive discussion in itself is harmful or counterproductive. [PJC]