The definition for abate is "Become less in amount or intensity." Used in a sentence: Just when it seemed the rain would never stop, the storm suddenly began to abate.

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 genial is "Sympathetic, friendly." Used in a sentence: The genial host warmly greeted his many guests.

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.

The definition for scapegoat is "Someone who bears the blame for others." Used in a sentence: Audrey used her innocent baby brother as a scapegoat for the missing cookies.