The definition for diffident is "Lacking self–confidence." Used in a sentence: The diffident student never raised her hand in class, even when she knew the answer.

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 prune is "To reduce by removing excess." Used in a sentence: The candidate pruned his speech so he would not exceed the time limit.

The definition for raspy is "rough, grating." Used in a sentence: After shouting to his players through the long game, the coach's voice was raspy.

The definition for rhapsody is "State of great happiness." Used in a sentence: Lorraine was in rhapsody when she was accepte to the college of her dreams.