Which statement defines teem?

• A. To shrink in number
• B. Be present in large quantity
• C. Be full of things; abound or swarm; move in large numbers
• D. To move slowly

Answer: (B)

Teem means to be present in great abundance. The best match is to say it means to be present in large quantity, because the core idea is density or fullness—there are many of whatever is being described. For example, a market teems with shoppers means there are lots of shoppers around. The sense in which it “abounds or swarms” is related, but it often implies quantity rather than movement, so the simple idea of being present in large quantity is the most direct definition. The other options describe shrinking in number or a slow movement, which don’t fit the core meaning of teem.