composed
The definition for composed is "Calm." Used in a sentence: Although her stomach was in knots, the actress appeared perfectly composed when she took the stage.
compulsion
The definition for compulsion is "An irresistible impulse." Used in a sentence: Tamar, a shoe fanatic, could not resist the compulsion to buy the shiny red boots.
conduit
The definition for conduit is "Means for transmitting or distributing." Used in a sentence: Jason, a notorious gossip, was a conduit for information about his friends.
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.
stern
The definition for stern is "Harsh, severe." Used in a sentence: The stern principal canceled the prom after the seniors played a silly prank.