The term 'PAD, SO TO SPEAK' can be solved by the crossword solution 'ABODE', which is a five-letter word. ABODE is a noun that refers to a dwelling place or HOME. It is often used to describe a person's residence, such as a house or apartment. The phrase 'so to speak' is used to indicate that something is being said figuratively or metaphorically rather than literally. Therefore, the phrase 'PAD, SO TO SPEAK' can be interpreted as a figurative way of saying 'HOME'.