Which word means harsh, jarring noise?

• A. Archaic
• B. Cacophony
• C. Assuage
• D. Attenuate

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is recognizing a word that names a harsh, jarring sound. Cacophony fits perfectly because it specifically means a discordant, unpleasant mix of noises—the kind of sound that hurts the ears or feels chaotic. It’s a noun you can use to describe this kind of auditory jumble, as in a cacophony of horns, sirens, and shouting.

The other words don’t capture that idea: archaic means ancient or old-fashioned, not related to sound; assuage means to soothe or ease, which is about reducing distress, not describing noise; attenuate means to lessen in force or intensity, which could apply to sound indirectly but doesn’t name the noise itself. So the best choice directly matches the description of a harsh, jarring noise.