catastrophic
The definition for catastrophic is "Relating to extreme misfortune." Used in a sentence: The effects of the massive hurricane were catastrophic.
compulsion
The definition for compulsion is "An irresistible impulse." Used in a sentence: Tamar, a shoe fanatic, could not resist the compulsion to buy the shiny red boots.
extenuating
The definition for extenuating is "Partially excusing." Used in a sentence: The extenuating circumstance of Calvin's illness caused the teacher to excuse his lateness.
flourish
The definition for flourish is "To make bold, sweeping gestures." Used in a sentence: The fairy godmother flourished her wand and turned the pumpkin into a carriage.
salvage
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.