Select the word closest in meaning to the word given below.

Bowdlerize

Correct option is B

• Given word – Bowdlerize:

• Bowdlerize means to remove or change parts of a text (especially sexual, rude, or offensive parts) so that it becomes “acceptable” for general readers.

• (Hindi meaning: आपत्तिजनक अंश हटाकर/बदलकर शुद्ध करना; सेंसर करना)

• Example: The publisher bowdlerized the novel to make it suitable for school students.

• Correct option – Censor:

• Censor means to examine and remove objectionable or sensitive material from books, films, speeches, etc.

• (Hindi meaning: सेंसर करना / आपत्तिजनक भाग हटाना)

• This is closest to “bowdlerize” because both involve removing offensive/undesirable content.

• Example: The film was censored before its release.

• Synonyms of Bowdlerize: censor, sanitize, expurgate, edit.

• Antonyms of Bowdlerize: publish uncut, preserve, retain, include.

• Meanings of other options (why they are incorrect):

• (a) Adulterate – to make something impure by adding inferior/harmful substances (Hindi: मिलावटी/दूषित करना)

• (c) Crumble – to break into small pieces; disintegrate (Hindi: टूटकर बिखर जाना)

• (d) Abuse – to misuse or treat badly; insult (Hindi: दुरुपयोग करना / गाली देना)

So the correct answer is (b).