The term COVER TOE can be solved by the crossword solutions GOUT and STUB. GOUT is a type of arthritis that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, especially in the feet. It is caused by an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint. STUB is a short piece of something, such as a cigarette or a pencil, that has been broken off or cut short. In this context, COVER TOE could refer to protecting the toes from GOUT pain or stubbing them on something.