This study thoroughly analyses the structural and biological properties of a Schiff base compound synthesized from the condensation of 2-formyl phenol and 4-chloroaniline. Single crystal X-ray diffraction examination indicated that the compound crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c, with unit cell parameters a = 13.4232(15) Å, b = 5.7860(6) Å, c = 14.699(2) Å, β = 106.048(6) °, and Z = 4. The molecular structure has an E configuration around the C=N double bond, with a bond length of 1.266(2) Å, and includes an intramolecular O—H⋯N hydrogen bond. Hirshfeld surface analysis elucidated intermolecular interactions inside the crystal lattice, emphasizing dominant hydrogen-hydrogen, hydrogen-chlorine, and carbon-hydrogen contacts. The chemical exhibited concentration-dependent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies on DNA interactions indicate van der Waals forces between the ligand and nucleic acid, whereas it demonstrated considerable binding affinity for BSA with a ΔG value of -6.9 kcal/mol. ADME study revealed values within the recommended range, indicating advantageous pharmacokinetic characteristics. PASS filter-based cytotoxicity predictions indicated significant anti-cancer efficacy against breast adenocarcinoma, small cell lung carcinoma, and lung cancer. Toxicological assessments in diverse models indicated no possible irritation to skin and ocular tissues, highlighting its safety profile for therapeutic use. This research advances our comprehension of Schiff bases with halogen substituents and their prospective uses in chemistry and biology.