Question

as it is used in the passage the word \fertile\ most nearly means: a. capable of growing or developing. b. naturally clever c. gorgeous and desirous d. characterized by great resourcefulness of thought or imagination

Explanation:

To determine the meaning of "fertile" in the passage, we analyze the options. The primary definition of "fertile" relates to the ability to grow or develop (e.g., fertile soil for plants). Option B ("naturally clever") and C ("gorgeous and desirous") are unrelated. Option D refers to a figurative use (e.g., fertile mind), but the most common and literal (or basic) meaning tied to the word's core definition is "capable of growing or developing."

Answer:

A. Capable of growing or developing.