The term 'painful to the touch' can be described by the crossword solution 'SORE, ' which is a four-letter word. Soreness is a common symptom of many medical conditions, and it is usually caused by inflammation or irritation of the skin or underlying tissue. It can be caused by a variety of things, such as an injury, infection, or even allergies. Soreness is often accompanied by pain, tenderness, and discomfort when touched.