1. environ   surround or enclose.   encode a message.   slow down.   divide into two branches or fork.   Hint Half-n-half Clue   2. germinate   place in surrounding mass.   cause to shoot or sprout.   increase toughness by gradual heat reduction.   remove water from something.   Half-n-half Clue   3. compound   polish by friction or rub to make shiny.   weaken or make slender.   cover with shiny glassy substance.   combine or mix.   Half-n-half Clue   4. corrode   eaten into or affected by chemical action.   combine or mix.   hinder or retard.   collect into a mass.   Half-n-half Clue   5. hibernate   spend winter sleeping.   cut with sharp-edged tool; cheat or treat unfairly.   weaken or make slender.   refine or purify.   Half-n-half Clue   6. distill   refine or purify.   waver or vary in an unstable way.   eaten into or affected by chemical action.   collect together or unite.   Half-n-half Clue   7. defoliate   combine or mix.   remove foliage or leaves.   dry up by removing moisture.   reduce the concentration or strength.   Half-n-half Clue