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 preclude is "To rule out in advance." Used in a sentence: "Having cake now will preclude dessert later," said Amber's mother.

The definition for scamper is "To run quickly." Used in a sentence: The frightened kitten scampered away from the butterfly.

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.