The term 'put in play' can be broken down into three crossword solutions: CAST (4 letters), ACTIVATE (8 letters), and SERVE (5 letters). CAST means to throw or project something, usually referring to a ball or other object. ACTIVATE means to make something active or to start it up. SERVE means to provide a service or to offer something to someone. All three of these words together can be used to describe the act of putting something into action or making it available for use.