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.
manifest
The definition for manifest is "Obvious." Used in a sentence: James finally made his affection manifest when he handed Jessica a red rose.
prune
The definition for prune is "To reduce by removing excess." Used in a sentence: The candidate pruned his speech so he would not exceed the time limit.
punctual
The definition for punctual is "On time." Used in a sentence: Ron was worried when the usually punctual Amanda was late for the show.
rancorous
The definition for rancorous is "Marked by deep ill–will." Used in a sentence: The rancorous competition between the two chess clubs actually ended in a brawl.