gruff
The definition for gruff is "Rough or stern in manner or speech." Used in a sentence: Heidi's grandfather was gruff, barking stern orders and hardly smiling.
lenient
The definition for lenient is "Mild or tolerant." Used in a sentence: The judge issued a lenient sentence because it was Frank's first offense.
melee
The definition for melee is "A tumultuous fight among several people." Used in a sentence: After the game, a melee broke out between fans of the opposing teams.
nurture
The definition for nurture is "To further the development of." Used in a sentence: Our cat made a nest of blankets to nurture her newborn kittens.
rail
The definition for rail is "To scold in harsh language." Used in a sentence: Clay began to cry as his irate manager railed at him for missing the deadline.