Step 1: Understanding the Question
The question asks for the antonym (opposite) of the word "failed" from the given passage.
Step 2: Analyzing the Word and Passage
The word "failed" means to be unsuccessful in achieving a goal. We need to find a word in the passage that means to be successful.
The passage describes a spider's attempts: "It tried and tried, but always fell short." This is a form of failing.
Then, the passage states, "At the ninth attempt it succeeded."
Step 3: Detailed Explanation
The word "succeeded" means to achieve a desired aim or result. This is the direct opposite of "failed."
Let's look at the other options:
(A) watched - This means to look at or observe, not the opposite of failed.
(B) defeated - This is a synonym for failed, not an antonym.
(C) succeeded - This is the correct antonym.
(D) tried - This means to make an attempt, which can result in either success or failure. It is not the opposite of failed.
Step 4: Final Answer
The word in the passage that is the opposite of "failed" is "succeeded." Therefore, option (C) is correct.