English Vocabulary — Antonym (choose the word opposite in meaning to the highlighted word). Sentence: Crestfallen, he returned, as he had never faced such humiliation in his life.

Introduction / Context:
This question focuses on antonyms for emotional descriptors in narrative sentences. The highlighted adjective “crestfallen” conveys a strong sense of dejection after a humiliating event. You must choose the best opposite in tone and meaning.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: crestfallen = dejected, downcast.
• Situation: He returns after humiliation.
• Options: vainglorious, indignant, triumphant, disturbed.

Concept / Approach:
An antonym must invert the emotional state. “Crestfallen” suggests loss of pride and joy; the opposite would express success or elation. Among choices, “triumphant” most directly signals victorious joy and uplifted spirit, the clearest counterpoint to dejection.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Replace in the sentence: “Triumphant, he returned …” This flips the emotional narrative. Other choices introduce different emotions (anger, vanity, anxiety) rather than a clear opposite of dejection.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• vainglorious: Boastfully proud; not a natural narrative opposite of dejection in this context and carries a negative moral tone.
• indignant: Angry at perceived injustice; not the opposite of sadness.
• disturbed: Anxious or unsettled; still negative and not a reversal to positive success.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “opposite” with any different emotion. The best antonym reverses valence (negative to positive) and intensity; “triumphant” achieves both.

Final Answer:
triumphant