The term 'over the coals' is a phrase that means to be severely criticized or reprimanded. The crossword solutions for this phrase are 'RAKED' (5 letters) and 'RAKE' (4 letters). RAKE is a tool with a long handle and a row of metal teeth at one end, used for gathering leaves, hay, grass, etc., or for smoothing, leveling, or spreading earth or gravel. To RAKE over the coals is to be harshly criticized or reprimanded.