The definition for brandish is "To shake or wave menacingly." Used in a sentence: The baseball player was fined for brandishing his bat at the opposing pitcher.

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.

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.

The definition for negate is "To make invalid." Used in a sentence: Paula negated Tiffany's argument by proving that her main premise was false.

The definition for plaudits is "Enthusiastic approval." Used in a sentence: Allison's painting met with plaudits from the critics, who had dismissed her earlier work.