The definition for brandish is "To shake or wave menacingly." Used in a sentence: The baseball player was fined for brandishing his bat at the opposing pitcher.

The definition for civility is "Politeness." Used in a sentence: The usually unruly Thomas acted with great civility when his favorite uncle visited.

The definition for corrosive is "Bitingly sarcastic." Used in a sentence: The cruel Estella's corrosive comments made Pip cry.

The definition for distortion is "The act of twisting out of shape." Used in a sentence: The story about the actress in the gossip column was a distortion of the truth.

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.