curtail
The definition for curtail is "To make less." Used in a sentence: Doreen decided to curtail her spending after she bounced a check.
derivative
The definition for derivative is "Lacking originality." Used in a sentence: Critics panned the movie as a derivative version of last year's Best Picture.
precept
The definition for precept is "A general rule of action." Used in a sentence: All the students know Mrs. Brown's strict precept; no talking in class.
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.
trove
The definition for trove is "Valuable collection." Used in a sentence: Walter's trove of vintage baseball cards was worth thousands of dollars.