Question

Read the excerpt below and answer the question. It puzzles me now to remember with what absurd sincerity I doated on this little toy, half fancying it alive and capable of sensation. (Jane Eyre; chapter 4, p. 17) Based on its use in this context, the word doat most likely means cherishWhat does the word doat most likely mean in this context?

a) Ignore
d) Despise
c) Cherish
d) Analyze

Answer 1

In the context of 'Jane Eyre', 'doat' suggests a deep affection, hence 'cherish' is the meaning most fitting the usage in the excerpt.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of the quoted excerpt from Jane Eyre, the word doat most likely means cherish. The use of 'doated' in the sentence suggests a deep affection or fondness for the 'little toy', to the extent of half-believing it to be alive and capable of sensation. This conveys a sense of endearment and emotional attachment, making 'cherish' the correct meaning of doat among the provided options.