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 flourish is "To make bold, sweeping gestures." Used in a sentence: The fairy godmother flourished her wand and turned the pumpkin into a carriage.

The definition for naive is "Lacking worldy wisdom." Used in a sentence: The naive Simon assumed that everyone was as simple and kind as he was.

The definition for periodic is "Occurring at regular intervals." Used in a sentence: The periodic innterruptions of the cuckoo clock prevented Li from concentrating.

The definition for pretense is "False intention or purpose." Used in a sentence: The jewel thief entered the mansion under the pretense of fixing a leaky faucet.