appraise
The definition for appraise is "To evaluate the worth of." Used in a sentence: Simone, an expert in African sculpture, was asked to appraise the ambassador's collection of masks.
buffer
The definition for buffer is "Protective barrier." Used in a sentence: The dense trees acted as a buffer against the heavy rain.
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.
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.