Antonym of Cosset Explained

The question asks to select the antonym of the word "cosset". To find the antonym, we first need to understand the meaning of "cosset" and then look for the word that has an opposite meaning among the given options.

Cosset: Understanding the Word

The verb "cosset" means to treat someone with great care and attention, often to an excessive degree; to pamper or spoil. It implies providing comfort, protection, and indulgence.

• Example: "The grandmother would cosset her grandchild, always giving them whatever they desired."

Analyzing the Options for Antonym of Cosset

Let's examine each option to determine its relationship with "cosset":

1. close

   The word "close" has various meanings, such as to shut, to bring near, or to be intimate. None of these meanings are related to pampering or treating with care, nor are they an opposite of "cosset".

2. fondle

   To "fondle" means to stroke or caress lovingly or tenderly. This action suggests a form of gentle and affectionate treatment, which is similar to, or a way of, showing care, aligning closely with the idea of "cosset". Therefore, "fondle" is a synonym or a related concept, not an antonym.

3. caress

   To "caress" means to touch or stroke gently or lovingly. Similar to "fondle", "caress" also implies affectionate and gentle treatment, which aligns with the act of pampering or showing great care. Thus, "caress" is also a synonym or a closely related word to "cosset", not its antonym.

4. ignore

   To "ignore" means to intentionally disregard, pay no attention to, or refuse to take notice of someone or something. This is the direct opposite of treating someone with great care and attention, pampering them, or indulging them. If you "cosset" someone, you give them a lot of attention and care; if you "ignore" them, you give them no attention or care at all.

Antonym Identification: Why 'Ignore' is Correct

Based on the analysis:

• "Cosset" implies providing excessive care, attention, and indulgence.
• "Fondle" and "caress" both involve showing care and affection, making them close in meaning or synonyms to "cosset".
• "Close" is unrelated in meaning.
• "Ignore" means to deliberately pay no attention to, which is the direct opposite of pampering or treating with great care.

Therefore, "ignore" is the appropriate antonym for "cosset".