Microwaves are a type of electromagnetic radiation that is used in many everyday appliances. They are most commonly used to heat food quickly and efficiently. The term 'microwaves' can also be used to describe the device that emits the radiation, which is often referred to as a 'microwave oven'. The crossword solutions for the term 'microwaves' are 'NUKES' (5 letters), 'heats' (5 letters), and 'zaps' (4 letters). All three of these words refer to the ability of microwaves to heat food quickly and efficiently.