Question

Based on its use in this context, the word doat most likely means... 1. resent 2. be revolted by 3. feel affection for 4. cherish
"It puzzles me now to remember with what absurd sincerity I doated on this little toy, half fancying it alive and capable of sensation. (Jane Eyre; chapter 4, p. 17)"

Answer 1

Here, the word dote probably means 4. cherish. It is an old word which means deep and uncritical adoration for something.

Answer 2

The right answer is "3. feel affection for"

The word "doat" means an intense admiration for something or someone. In this case, the text, when using the sentence "... I doated on this little toy .." is the same as saying "I felt a great affection for this toy."