The term 'RUN OUT OF GEAR' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: IDLE (4 letters) and STREAK (6 letters). IDLE is an adjective that means to be inactive or not doing anything. It can also refer to a machine or engine that is not running. STREAK is a noun that refers to a long, continuous series of something, such as a winning STREAK or a STREAK of bad luck. Together, the two words form the phrase 'run out of gear, ' which means to run out of energy or momentum. This phrase is often used to describe a situation where someone has been working hard but has reached a point where they can no longer continue.