The definition for placebo is "An inactive substance used in medical testing." Used in a sentence: Tom, who had taken the placebo, found that his allergy symptoms did not go away.

The definition for ploy is "A contrived plan." Used in a sentence: Sarah thought George's ploy of borrowing her notes was a cowardly way to ask her out.

The definition for polarize is "To break up into opposing groups." Used in a sentence: Thelma tended to polarize discussions rather than to encourage compromise.

The definition for raucous is "Noisy, rowdy." Used in a sentence: Serena, who preferred quiet conversation, left the rancous party.

The definition for surplus is "Excess." Used in a sentence: Trevor decided to freeze the surplus chili for next week's tailgate party.