The term 'hotfoot reaction' is a phrase used to describe the sudden and intense feeling of fear or anxiety that can be experienced in response to a startling event. The two crossword solutions for this term are YEOW (4 letters) and YOW (3 letters). YEOW is an interjection used to express surprise, shock, or pain, while YOW is an exclamation used to express surprise or dismay. Both words are used to describe the sudden and intense feeling of fear or anxiety associated with the hotfoot reaction.