The definition for diffident is "Lacking self–confidence." Used in a sentence: The diffident student never raised her hand in class, even when she knew the answer.

The definition for disdain is "Feeling of contempt." Used in a sentence: The arrogant writer did not hide his disdain for his uneducated dinner companion.

The definition for pretense is "False intention or purpose." Used in a sentence: The jewel thief entered the mansion under the pretense of fixing a leaky faucet.

The definition for salvage is "To save from ruin." Used in a sentence: After the fire, Mrs. Han tried to salvage her family photos from the wreckage.

The definition for stern is "Harsh, severe." Used in a sentence: The stern principal canceled the prom after the seniors played a silly prank.