In each of the following questions on idioms, choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom Cap in hand.

Introduction / Context:
This idiom question focuses on the expression Cap in hand. The phrase comes from older customs where a person would remove or hold their hat in front of someone of higher status as a sign of respect or humility. In present day English, the idiom is still used in both writing and speech to describe a respectful or humble approach, especially when making a request.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Idiom: Cap in hand.• Options describe different attitudes or behaviours.• The task is to select the one that best matches the idiomatic meaning.• We assume standard explanations given in competitive examination materials.

Concept / Approach:
The image behind Cap in hand is of someone standing before another person with head slightly bowed and cap removed as a gesture of humility. The idiom therefore means approaching someone in a respectful, often humble, manner, sometimes seeking a favour. It does not imply shouting, defiance, or simply being well behaved. The key idea is respectful and slightly submissive behaviour.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Cap in hand describes a person showing respect or humility when speaking to someone else.Step 2: Evaluate option D In a respectful manner, which directly states this core meaning.Step 3: Examine option C Well behaved. While a respectful person is often well behaved, the idiom specifically emphasises respectful humility rather than general good behaviour.Step 4: Consider option A Defiant, which is almost the opposite of the humble posture suggested by the idiom.Step 5: Check option B Screaming, which describes loud, emotional behaviour and has no relation to quiet respect.Step 6: Conclude that option D is the best and most accurate explanation.

Verification / Alternative check:
Imagine sentences such as He went to his former boss cap in hand to ask for his job back. Here, the phrase clearly indicates a humble, respectful approach. Replacing it with well behaved does not accurately convey that sense of humility. Defiant and screaming would reverse the attitude and do not match the pictorial origin of taking off one cap in respect. Thus, the idiom aligns most naturally with the idea of speaking or behaving in a respectful manner.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Defiant suggests boldly resisting authority, which conflicts with the submissive image of cap in hand. Screaming implies loud, emotional, often disrespectful behaviour, again opposite in tone to the idiom. Well behaved refers to general good conduct but lacks the element of humility and seeking favour, and is therefore less precise than In a respectful manner.

Common Pitfalls:
Sometimes candidates choose well behaved because it sounds positive and safe. However, idioms usually have a more specific meaning than a vague positive quality. When interpreting idioms, it helps to visualise the original situation that gave rise to the expression. In this case, picturing someone holding their cap in front of them makes it clear that respect and humility are the central ideas.

Final Answer:
The idiom Cap in hand means behaving or approaching someone in a respectful manner.