1. The new actress’s talents were severely ________ by the local critics; she went on to be a distinguished member of a well-respected acting company.

2. Moving swiftly and gracefully through the backyard, the cat suddenly ________ when she hit the thorny bush.

3. After Ginger banged her head, she noticed that a large lump began to ________ from her forehead.

4. After sitting in the sink for several days, the dirty, food-encrusted dishes became ________.

5. The spectacular presentation by a rainforest adventurer ________ Simon with the desire to travel to South America to see the jungles for himself.

6. Because of the ________ of reliable information, Quentin’s report was comprised mostly of speculation.

7. Acting in the high school play served to ________ Ander’s appetite for professional acting.

8. According to the terms of the agreement, if Nicole defaulted on her loan, she would have to ________ her house and car, both which would become property of the bank.

9. Patrick, who was always joking, added ________ to the formal dinner, which his sedate employer did not appreciate.

10. The drama workshop’s efforts ________ in the final production of a play written, directed, and acted by the students for the entire school.