1.CHIDE (verb) To scold, reprove LINK: LIED “When Robert threw his toys against the wall, his father CHIDED him for his bad temper.”

2. SPURN (verb) To reject with disdain LINK: BURN “Andrew never asked Shannon out on a date for fear that she would SPURN him.”

3. FEIGN (verb) To give a false appearance; to pretend LINK: INSANE “Jessica FEIGNED illness in order to stay home from school on the day of her final exam in math.”

4. DAMPER (noun) One that depresses or restrains LINK: DAMP PAW “The family was excited about their vacation until their father put DAMPER on their plans, saying there was no money for a trip.”

5. SCAPEGOAT (noun) One who is made an object of blame for others LINK: GOAT “Evan was always the SCAPEGOAT, taking blame for whatever happened, whether he was at fault or not.”

6. HUSBANDRY (noun) Management of resources, especially in agriculture LINK: HUSBAND TREE “Everyone in our squad HUSBANDED their share of water for the long trek back to the barracks.”

7. SPUR (verb/noun) To move to action; an incentive LINK: SPURS “Coach Wheeler told her players that her job was not only to teach them, but to SPUR them to do their best.”

8. TRUCULENT (adjective) Inclined toward conflict; eager to fight LINK: TRUCK YOU LENT “A TRUCULENT attitude seldom wins friends or influences people in a positive way.”

9. DEBACLE (noun) A sudden calamitous downfall or failure LINK: THE BUCKLE “It was an absolute DEBACLE when the Angels lost to the Yankees in the playoffs last year.”

10. OPTIMUM (adjective) The most advantageous; the best condition LINK: OCTOPUS MOM “Jayna said she had the OPTIMUM job, working at home on the computer and watching soap operas.”