The definition for extenuating is "Partially excusing." Used in a sentence: The extenuating circumstance of Calvin's illness caused the teacher to excuse his lateness.

The definition for facade is "false or superficial appearance." Used in a sentence: Emily's smile is just a facade masking her broken heart.

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.

The definition for heed is "To pay attention to." Used in a sentence: "Heed my advice," the fortuneteller warned Sebastian when he tried to ignore her prophecy.

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.