The definition for abate is "Become less in amount or intensity." Used in a sentence: Just when it seemed the rain would never stop, the storm suddenly began to abate.

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.

The definition for onset is "Beginning." Used in a sentence: Crocuses bloom at the onset of spring, sometimes even before the snow melts.

The definition for refurbish is "To brighten or freshen." Used in a sentence: Leeanne cleaned and mended all weekend to refurbish the shabby apartment.

The definition for servile is "Fearfully submissive." Used in a sentence: Felicia's servile attitude annoyed her boss, who preferred an assistant with more backbone.