Paying heed is an expression that means to pay attention and take notice of something. The crossword solutions for this term are ALERT (5 letters), OBEYING (7 letters), and LENDINGANEAR (12 letters). ALERT means to be watchful and attentive, OBEYING implies following instructions or orders, and LENDINGANEAR suggests listening closely and carefully. All three words together suggest paying close attention and being aware of the situation.