Which of the following identifies words that are similar in meaning?

The choice of synonym is correct because synonyms are words that have similar or identical meanings. For example, the words "happy" and "joyful" can be used interchangeably in many contexts, demonstrating their similar meanings. Understanding synonyms is essential for vocabulary development and enhances writing by providing variety and precision.

In contrast, antonyms are words with opposite meanings, such as "hot" and "cold." Homophones refer to words that sound the same but have different meanings, like "pair" and "pear." An analogy is a comparison between two different things that highlights some form of similarity, but it does not specifically relate to similar meanings of individual words. Thus, synonym is the appropriate term to identify words that share similar meanings.