The term 'SHUTS DOWN' can be broken down into three crossword solutions: HALTS (5 letters), ENDS (4 letters), and CLOSES (6 letters). All three words mean to bring something to an end or to stop it from continuing. The word 'halts' implies a sudden stop, while the words 'ENDS' and 'closes' imply a more gradual conclusion. All three words are commonly used in everyday language and are often used interchangeably.