Step 1: Understanding the Question:
We need to pick the word closest in meaning to "minion" from the four choices given.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Break the target word into its core sense first, then test each option against that sense one at a time, ruling out any option that shifts the meaning even slightly.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
"Minion" comes from a French root meaning a favorite or a servant who is loyal to someone more powerful. In everyday use it often carries a mildly negative tone, describing a person who follows orders without question.
"Host" points to someone who welcomes guests or a large gathering, a completely separate idea.
"Master" is the reverse relationship, the person being served, not the one serving.
"Inferior" only tells us about rank or quality, it says nothing about loyalty or obedience to a leader.
"Follower" carries both pieces: lower standing and active obedience to someone else, which lines up with what a minion actually is.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The word that matches "minion" in meaning is "follower", so the answer is option (c).