The objective is to select the appropriate word to complete the sentence: "The Principal addressed us in the assembly and ___________ the rumors of an early summer break." Let's examine each option:
- defended: To support or justify. The Principal would not likely be supporting rumors.
- quashed: To suppress or decisively end. This accurately reflects the Principal's intent to stop the rumors.
- cleared: To provide explanation or clarity. While plausible, it doesn't as strongly indicate the termination of rumors.
- rebuked: To criticize or reprimand. This is improbable as the focus is on addressing rumors, not reprimanding them.
The most suitable choice, according to the analysis, is: quashed
Thus, the completed sentence reads: "The Principal addressed us in the assembly and quashed the rumors of an early summer break."