Choose the word from the options given below that is closest in meaning to the given underlined word:

Appal

Dismay

The correct answer is Option (1) → Dismay

"Appal" means to greatly shock or horrify someone, which is closest in meaning to "dismay," a feeling of alarm or distress.

Option (2) → Inceptive: Relates to the beginning of something; not similar in meaning to "appal."
Option (3) → Embrace: Means to accept or hug; opposite in tone to "appal."
Option (4) → Liturgy: Refers to a set form of public worship; unrelated to the meaning of "appal."