Which term describes something that is harmless and non-offensive?

The term that describes something that is harmless and non-offensive is "innocuous." This word comes from the Latin root "innocuus," meaning "not harmful" or "harmless." When something is characterized as innocuous, it indicates that it poses no danger, threat, or adverse effect to others.

For example, innocuous comments or behaviors are those that do not provoke anger or offense, making them safe to express in social situations. This aligns perfectly with the context of describing something that is non-threatening and benign.

In contrast, the other terms have meanings that contradict the idea of being harmless. "Infectious," for instance, implies the capability to spread something harmful or detrimental, often related to diseases. "Evasive" refers to the act of avoiding commitment or directness, which does not imply harmlessness. Lastly, "hostile" denotes a state of aggression or opposition, which is inherently offensive and undoubtedly carries a negative connotation. Thus, "innocuous" stands out as the correct choice for something that is harmless and non-offensive.