Prolonged fear is a term that describes a state of fear that lasts for an extended period of time. The term can be used to describe a feeling of dread or anxiety that persists over a long period of time. In this context, the crossword solution for the term 'prolonged fear' is 'TERROR, ' which is defined as intense, overpowering fear. TERROR is often associated with extreme violence and can be used to describe the fear experienced by victims of terrorism or other forms of violence.