demean
The definition for demean is "To lower status." Used in a sentence: The embarrassing photograph demeaned the candidate in the eyes of the voters.
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.
induce
The definition for induce is "To influence or cause." Used in a sentence: The loud blast of the cannon induced an avalanche.
placebo
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.
serenity
The definition for serenity is "Calmness." Used in a sentence: The serenity of the glassy sea soothed the sailors after the big storm.