7. “At once they gratify their scent and taste,/and frequent cups prolong the rich repast.”
Which of these is nearest in meaning to the word gratify, as it is used in the passage above?
irritate
deny
satisfy
discuss
Satisfy
To determine which word is nearest in meaning to "gratify" in the given passage, let's analyze the context and consider the options provided.
In the passage, it mentions that "At once they gratify their scent and taste, and frequent cups prolong the rich repast." This implies that the subject is indulging or satisfying their senses, specifically their scent and taste.
Now, let's consider the given options:
1. Irritate: This word has a completely opposite meaning to "gratify." It means to annoy, provoke, or disturb, which doesn't align with the sense of satisfaction expressed in the passage.
2. Deny: Again, this word presents an opposite meaning to "gratify." To deny something means to refuse or withhold it, which goes against the idea of fulfilling or satisfying one's senses.
3. Satisfy: This option seems to be the best fit. To satisfy means to fulfill or meet someone's desires, wants, or needs. In the passage, the subject is immediately fulfilling their scent and taste, implying an instant satisfaction.
4. Discuss: This word has a different connotation and does not align with the context of indulging the senses or experiencing pleasure.
Based on the given options, "satisfy" is the word nearest in meaning to "gratify" as it is used in the passage.