Question

although the words original meaning was flattering, it has come to ______ an obnoxiously selfish person.
1 elucidate
2 desecrate
3 amortize
4 connote

Explanation:

• "Elucidate" means to make clear or explain, which doesn't fit the context of a word coming to represent a type of person.
• "Desecrate" means to treat a sacred thing with disrespect, which is not relevant here.
• "Amortize" is related to spreading out payments or costs over time, not relevant to word meaning.
• "Connote" means to imply or suggest an additional meaning, which fits the context of a word now suggesting (coming to represent) an obnoxiously selfish person.

Answer:

1. connote