Final answer:
The word "vapour," meaning hypochondria, best matches with hysteria due to the excessive worry and irrational behavior related to health that both terms share.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word "vapour," when used to mean hypochondria, best matches with option (a) hysteria. Hypochondria is a condition where a person is excessively worried about having a serious illness. This worry can sometimes lead to hysteria, which is an exaggerated or uncontrollable emotion or excitement, often characterized by irrational fears and behaviors. Both hypochondria and hysteria involve excessive concern over health. In comparison:
- (b) joy doesn't fit since it is a feeling of great pleasure and happiness.
- (c) confidence is a feeling of self-assurance arising from an appreciation of one's own abilities or qualities, which doesn't relate to hypochondria.
- (d) serenity refers to the state of being calm, peaceful, and untroubled, which also does not match the meaning of hypochondria.