From the given options, select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank in the given sentence:-

He gazed _____ at his beautiful parental home in the valley, his thoughts drifting to a memorable past.

yearningly

The correct answer is Option (3) → yearningly

Yearningly (Adverb): In a way that expresses intense longing, especially for something lost or far away. Since his thoughts were drifting to a memorable past associated with the parental home, he is likely gazing at it with a feeling of deep desire or nostalgia, making yearningly the most fitting choice.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect: 

• Zestfully: With great enthusiasm and energy (suggests excitement for the future, not reflection on the past).

• Yieldingly: In a way that is submissive or compliant (unrelated to gazing or memory).

• Woefully: In a manner expressing sorrow or misery