Select the synonym for the underlined word in the following sentence:-

Amid the whispered retractions that shadowed her every step, she walked with a quiet dignity as if truth itself walked beside her.

vindication

The correct answer is Option (2) → vindication

In the passage:

• “whispered retractions”

• “shadowed her every step”

• “she walked with quiet dignity as if truth itself walked beside her”

This implies:

• People had earlier spoken negatively or falsely about her.

• Those same people are now withdrawing their earlier accusations (retracting them).

• When accusations are withdrawn, the person receives vindication — meaning being proven right or innocent.

So in context, the “retractions” lead to vindication.

Option 1 – adulation: Means praise, which does not relate to taking back accusations.

Option 3 – slander: Means false accusations; it is the opposite of a retraction, not a synonym.

Option 4 – vendetta: Means a long-standing feud; unrelated to withdrawing statements.