The term POSITIVELY STATE can be broken down into two crossword solutions: AVER and ASSERT. AVER is a 4-letter word meaning to state as a fact, often without proof. It is derived from the Latin verb 'averare, ' which means 'to make firm.' ASSERT is a 6-letter word meaning to state confidently and forcefully. It is derived from the Latin verb 'assertare, ' which means 'to affirm or declare.' Both words are used to describe the act of positively stating something.