The definition for abate is "Become less in amount or intensity." Used in a sentence: Just when it seemed the rain would never stop, the storm suddenly began to abate.

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.

The definition for recrimination is "A retaliatory accusation." Used in a sentence: Frank, who was wounded by Sally's remark, made a bitter recrimination.

The definition for regurgitate is "To pour out or throw back." Used in a sentence: The teacher wanted us to examine ideas rather than to regurgitate memorized facts.

The definition for straddle is "To favor opposing sides." Used in a sentence: Kia straddled the issue, not wanting to say whether James or Tara was right.