buffer
The definition for buffer is "Protective barrier." Used in a sentence: The dense trees acted as a buffer against the heavy rain.
ethical
The definition for ethical is "Conforming to accepted standards." Used in a sentence: Mary did the ethical thing and turned in the diamond necklace she found.
onset
The definition for onset is "Beginning." Used in a sentence: Crocuses bloom at the onset of spring, sometimes even before the snow melts.
punctual
The definition for punctual is "On time." Used in a sentence: Ron was worried when the usually punctual Amanda was late for the show.
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.