cunning
The definition for cunning is "Showing clever insight." Used in a sentence: The general devised a cunning strategy to outfox the enemy.
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.
heinous
The definition for heinous is "Shockingly evil." Used in a sentence: Eduardo's heinous betrayal of Lydia shocked even Latasha, who knew his evil ways.
plaudits
The definition for plaudits is "Enthusiastic approval." Used in a sentence: Allison's painting met with plaudits from the critics, who had dismissed her earlier work.
precept
The definition for precept is "A general rule of action." Used in a sentence: All the students know Mrs. Brown's strict precept; no talking in class.