ADJECTIVE

Keen of mind and judgment, especially in practical matters (Russ O'Leary is an astute defensive coach.)

NOUN

• An institution for the care of needy individuals (The patient escaped from the asylum and went on a killing spree.)
• Any place offering protection or security (The United States is often an asylum for freedom-seeking people.)
• Protection against a legal or social penalty (Political asylum was given to the refugee.)

VERB

To make up for or repent (He atoned for his crime by performing community service.)

NOUN

A savagely cruel, brutal or inhuman deed (The Holocaust was an atrocity.)

NOUN

A failure to develop normally; a wasting away (The effect of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is muscular atrophy.)

VERB

To waste away (The skills of many football players atrophy after they reach age 30.)

NOUN

A gradual wearing down or weakening or a decrease in size, strength, or number (A football season is a war of attrition so avoiding injuries is a key to a winning season).

VERB

To make or become greater (Teddy Bridgewater augments the Vikings' offense.)

NOUN

Someone who can forecast the future (When it comes to setting my fantasy football lineups, I am an augur.)

VERB

To predict or foretell through signs (Starting Christian Ponder augured trouble for the Vikings.)

ADJECTIVE

Rigidly severe, simple, or bare (The Amish are very austere in their simple ways and strict customs.)

ADJECTIVE

Genuine, trustworthy (The pawn shop owner doubted that my Teddy Bridgewater autograph was authentic.)