The term 'loosens, in a way' can be solved by three different crossword solutions: 'unpins' (6 letters), 'UNHOOKS' (7 letters), and 'UNTIES' (6 letters). All three of these words refer to the act of loosening something, either physically or figuratively. Unpins refers to the act of removing a pin or fastener from something, UNHOOKS to the act of removing a hook from something, and UNTIES to the act of undoing a knot or tie.