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.
intricate
The definition for intricate is "Having complex and interrelated parts." Used in a sentence: The intricate poem baffled most readers with its numerous obscure metaphors.
pathos
The definition for pathos is "Sympathetic pity." Used in a sentence: The soldiers cherished the kindly Nurse Nightingale for her pathos.
prudent
The definition for prudent is "Marked by wisdom, shrewd." Used in a sentence: Manny was happy she followed Greg's prudent advice to study, as the test was difficult.
straddle
The definition for straddle is "To favor opposing sides." Used in a sentence: Kia straddled the issue, not wanting to say whether James or Tara was right.