Question

Based on the context of this line from James Joyce's "Araby," what is the correct definition of the word pervades?

Answer 1

Sentence: I recognized a silence like that which pervades a church after a service.

Answer 2

To figure this out we have to first know the definition of pervades. To put it simply, pervade means to permeate, to fill. In this context pervade would be referring to the silence. Knowing the definition, we can come to the conclusion that the silence filled the church after the service. Now putting it all together to see if it makes sense: "I recognized a silence like that which fills a church after a service". It would have been easier to explain my answer if you had answer options, but I hope this helps!