The definition for curtail is "To make less." Used in a sentence: Doreen decided to curtail her spending after she bounced a check.

The definition for demean is "To lower status." Used in a sentence: The embarrassing photograph demeaned the candidate in the eyes of the voters.

The definition for drab is "Dull, monotonous." Used in a sentence: The drab winter scene made Keisha long for the vibrant colors of spring.

The definition for onset is "Beginning." Used in a sentence: Crocuses bloom at the onset of spring, sometimes even before the snow melts.

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.