Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
The crowd gave them a ________ of applause.

The correct answer is round.

Explanation:

A "round of applause" is a common English idiom and collective noun phrase used to describe a burst or spell of clapping by an audience to show appreciation or approval.

Let's look at why the other options are incorrect:

• yell: Refers to a loud shout, not a form of applause.
• load: Means a large quantity or heavy weight, which does not collocate with "applause".
• laugh: Refers to the sound of laughing, which is distinct from clapping/applause.

Therefore, the complete and correct sentence is:
"The crowd gave them a round of applause."