In the excerpt, 'optics' most likely refers to the eyes or vision of the female characters, as they are seen wiping their eyes, indicating emotion.
Optics in the given excerpt most likely refers to the eyes or vision of the female Brocklehursts. They are seen using their pocket-handkerchiefs to wipe their eyes, indicating they are likely crying or emotional.
The context clues suggest that the word 'optics' is used figuratively to describe the act of wiping tears or showing emotion through their eyes.
Understanding context clues is essential in interpreting unfamiliar words or phrases in a text.
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