The definition for anthology is "A collection of selected literary pieces." Used in a sentence: The writer was thrilled when his story was included in an anthology of American masterpieces.

The definition for buffer is "Protective barrier." Used in a sentence: The dense trees acted as a buffer against the heavy rain.

The definition for diffident is "Lacking self–confidence." Used in a sentence: The diffident student never raised her hand in class, even when she knew the answer.

The definition for illuminate is "To make clear." Used in a sentence: Her excellent lecture illuminated the complicated subject of nuclear physics.

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.