Step 1 : Understanding the Question
This question requires identifying the most appropriate vocabulary word to complete a sentence based on context clues. The sentence provides a clear character description—"fearful and timid"—which serves as a definition for the missing word. The task is to find a synonym that captures these specific traits within a formal context.
Step 2 : Detailed Explanation
Contextual Analysis: The sentence describes a person who reacts to new environments with fear. This means we are looking for a word that represents a "lack of courage" or "excessive shyness."
Option (A) - Audacious: This means showing a willingness to take bold risks. It is a trait of extreme bravery or even impudence, which is the exact opposite of what the sentence describes.
Option (B) - Timorous: This is the correct word. It comes from the same Latin root as "timid" and "fear." It specifically describes someone who shows or suffers from nervousness, fear, or a lack of confidence. It matches the descriptors in the sentence perfectly.
Option (C) - Reckless: This means acting without thinking about the consequences. While a reckless person might not be "timid," they are also not necessarily "fearful." It represents a lack of care rather than a presence of fear.
Option (D) - Intrepid: This is a synonym for "fearless" or "adventurous." Like "audacious," it describes a personality that is the complete opposite of the one mentioned in the question.
Step 3: Final Answer
The words "fearful" and "timid" directly point toward the definition of "timorous." Therefore, option (B) is the only logically and grammatically correct choice to complete the sentence.