The crossword solution for the term RED __ (DISTRACTION) is HERRING. HERRING is a type of small, oily fish that is found in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It is an important food source for many species of animals, including humans. The term 'red HERRING' is used to describe something that distracts from the main issue or topic at hand. This phrase originated from the practice of using smoked HERRING as a way to distract hunting dogs from their original scent.