The term 'FOOTS THE BILL' is a phrase that means to PAY for something. The crossword solutions for this phrase are PAYS (4 letters), ADDS (4 letters), and HOSTS (5 letters). PAYS is the verb form of the word 'PAY', which means to give money in exchange for goods or services. ADDS is the verb form of the word 'ADD', which means to combine two or more numbers, amounts, or objects together. HOSTS is the verb form of the word 'HOST', which means to provide food, drinks, and entertainment for guests. Therefore, the phrase 'FOOTS THE BILL' can be interpreted as someone providing money, combining resources, and providing hospitality for others.