The crossword solution for the term COVER, SO TO SPEAK is ALIBI. An ALIBI is an excuse or explanation used to defend oneself from an accusation of wrongdoing. It is typically used in a legal context, where a person accused of a crime can provide evidence that they were elsewhere at the time of the alleged offense. An ALIBI is usually provided by a witness or other third party who can attest to the accused's whereabouts.