The term SPLITS OPEN can be solved by two crossword solutions: RIPS (4 letters) and WEDGES (6 letters). RIPS is a verb that means to tear something apart with force, usually along a line or seam. WEDGES is a noun that refers to a piece of material, such as wood or metal, that is cut or shaped into a triangular shape and used to split something open. Both words are commonly used to describe the act of splitting something open.