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.
foil
The definition for foil is "One that enhances or underscores by contrast." Used in a sentence: The sweet cookie was a perfect foil to the sour lemon sorbet.
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.
pallid
The definition for pallid is "Lacking color." Used in a sentence: The nurse was worried by the patient's pallid face and shallow breathing.
polarize
The definition for polarize is "To break up into opposing groups." Used in a sentence: Thelma tended to polarize discussions rather than to encourage compromise.