curtail
The definition for curtail is "To make less." Used in a sentence: Doreen decided to curtail her spending after she bounced a check.
discern
The definition for discern is "To recognize as separate as distinct." Used in a sentence: The pastry connoisseur was able to discern Swiss from Belgian chocolate.
drub
The definition for drub is "To defeat decisively." Used in a sentence: The powerful young boxer drubbed the longtime champion.
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.
plaudits
The definition for plaudits is "Enthusiastic approval." Used in a sentence: Allison's painting met with plaudits from the critics, who had dismissed her earlier work.