The term 'COST INCREASE' can be represented by two crossword solutions: HIKE (4 letters) and PRICEHIKE (9 letters). A cost increase is an increase in the price of goods or services, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as inflation, supply and demand, or taxes. The term HIKE is often used to refer to an increase in the cost of something, while PRICEHIKE is a more specific term that refers to an increase in the price of goods or services.