gruff
The definition for gruff is "Rough or stern in manner or speech." Used in a sentence: Heidi's grandfather was gruff, barking stern orders and hardly smiling.
heinous
The definition for heinous is "Shockingly evil." Used in a sentence: Eduardo's heinous betrayal of Lydia shocked even Latasha, who knew his evil ways.
insolence
The definition for insolence is "Boldness or rudeness." Used in a sentence: The boy's insolence to the policeman embarrassed his mother.
plaudits
The definition for plaudits is "Enthusiastic approval." Used in a sentence: Allison's painting met with plaudits from the critics, who had dismissed her earlier work.
preclude
The definition for preclude is "To rule out in advance." Used in a sentence: "Having cake now will preclude dessert later," said Amber's mother.