The term PANNING FIND is related to the process of GOLD mining. The crossword solution for this term is GOLD, which is a four-letter word. GOLD panning is a method of searching for GOLD by separating sediment from water using a shallow pan. This technique has been used since ancient times and is still used today in some areas. It is a relatively inexpensive way to search for GOLD, and can be done with minimal equipment.