Final answer:
The word 'GHASTLY' is closely associated with the meaning 'awful.' It conveys a sense of horror, fear, or dreadfulness. The correct multiple-choice option is (D).
Step-by-step explanation:
The word GHASTLY most nearly means awful. In the choices provided, 'fun', 'lazy', and 'torrid' do not align with the sentiment that 'ghastly' conveys. Ghastly is an adjective used to describe something that is shockingly frightful, horrible, or dreadful. It often refers to something that causes great horror or fear; something that is shockingly bad or upsetting.
The correct multiple-choice option is (D).