The term 'HIGHEST DEGREE' can be broken down into three crossword solutions: HILT (4 letters), NTH (3 letters), and MAX (3 letters). HILT stands for Highest In Level of Training, which is the highest level of education or training that a person can achieve. NTH stands for NTH Degree, which is the highest degree of something, such as a skill or knowledge. Finally, MAX stands for Maximum, which is the greatest amount or highest degree of something. Therefore, the term HIGHEST DEGREE can be defined as the greatest level of education, skill, or knowledge that a person can achieve.