The term 'DELETE, IN A WAY' can be solved by two crossword solutions: ZAP (3 letters) and XOUT (4 letters). ZAP is a verb meaning to destroy or obliterate something suddenly and completely, usually with a weapon or electrical current. XOUT is a verb meaning to delete or erase something, usually from a document or computer file. Both words refer to the act of deleting something, either suddenly or permanently.