censure
The definition for censure is "To find fault with." Used in a sentence: The critical teacher was quick to censure her students for even small mistakes.
mediate
The definition for mediate is "To come between parties in order to reconcile." Used in a sentence: The diplomatic Henry was able to mediate between the quarreling sisters.
polarize
The definition for polarize is "To break up into opposing groups." Used in a sentence: Thelma tended to polarize discussions rather than to encourage compromise.
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.
straddle
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.