Meaning: 'Waved' means to move one's hand back and forth to signal or greet someone, which is appropriate for calling a taxi.

Wrong options:

• signalled: 'Signalled' is a more formal term and typically implies a specific signal rather than a casual gesture, making it less fitting in this context.
• signed: 'Signed' refers to writing one's name or using sign language, which does not apply to the action of calling for a taxi.
• nodded: 'Nodded' implies a head movement usually indicating agreement or acknowledgment, which does not convey the action of attracting attention to a taxi.

Correct answer: pulled

Explanation: The word 'pulled' is appropriate here as it describes the action of the taxi coming to a stop at a location. It fits grammatically and contextually with the sentence structure.

Meaning: 'Pulled' means to move something towards oneself or to bring something to a stop, which accurately describes the taxi's action.

Wrong options:

• stopped: 'Stopped' could fit, but it lacks the nuance of movement towards a specific location that 'pulled' conveys.
• halted: 'Halted' is a more formal term and suggests a sudden stop, which is less common in casual conversation about taxis.
• drove: 'Drove' implies the action of operating the taxi, which does not fit the context of the taxi arriving at a location.

Correct answer: crouching

Explanation: The word 'crouching' accurately describes the position of the cat as it is low to the ground, which fits the context of the scene. It is a present participle that aligns with the ongoing action.

Meaning: 'Crouching' means to bend down low, often to hide or prepare to pounce, which is fitting for a cat eating.

Wrong options:

• creeping: 'Creeping' suggests a slow, stealthy movement, which does not match the cat's action of eating.
• stalking: 'Stalking' implies a predatory behavior, which is not relevant in the context of the cat simply eating.
• kneeling: 'Kneeling' refers to resting on one's knees, which is not applicable to a cat's natural posture while eating.

Correct answer: emerging

Explanation: The word 'emerging' fits perfectly as it indicates coming out from a hidden or dark place, which aligns with the context of the proprietor appearing from the back of the shop.

Meaning: 'Emerging' means to come out into view or to become visible, which is suitable for the proprietor's action.

Wrong options:

• discharging: 'Discharging' typically refers to releasing or letting go of something, which does not fit the context of someone appearing.
• exiting: 'Exiting' implies leaving a place, which does not convey the idea of coming into view as 'emerging' does.
• trailing: 'Trailing' suggests following behind something, which is not relevant to the action of the proprietor coming out.

Correct answer: stroking

Explanation: The word 'stroking' is the correct choice as it describes a gentle, affectionate action of petting the cat, which fits the context of Mrs. Bixby interacting with the animal.

Meaning: 'Stroking' means to move one's hand gently over something, often in a soothing manner, which is appropriate for petting a cat.

Wrong options:

• wiping: 'Wiping' implies cleaning or removing something, which does not fit the context of petting a cat.
• sweeping: 'Sweeping' suggests a broad, quick motion, often used for cleaning, which is not applicable to the gentle action of stroking.
• brushing: 'Brushing' typically refers to using a brush, which is not the same as the direct hand action of stroking.