elusive
The definition for elusive is "Hard to grasp." Used in a sentence: The words to the song are elusive, as the singer tends to mumble.
onset
The definition for onset is "Beginning." Used in a sentence: Crocuses bloom at the onset of spring, sometimes even before the snow melts.
prominence
The definition for prominence is "Importance." Used in a sentence: The singer's prominence ensured that the concert would sell out.
prune
The definition for prune is "To reduce by removing excess." Used in a sentence: The candidate pruned his speech so he would not exceed the time limit.
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.