The term DIRECT ROUTE can be summarized by three crossword solutions: BEELINE (7 letters), SHORTCUT (8 letters), and REFER (5 letters). A direct route is a path that is the most efficient way to get from one place to another, often taking the least amount of time. A BEELINE is an idiom that means to go directly to a destination without any detours or delays. A shortcut is a route that is shorter than the usual route, often taking less time to reach the destination. To REFER is to direct someone's attention to a particular thing or person.