DECLARE (5 letters) The term 'STATE PUBLICLY' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: AVOW (4 letters) and DECLARE (5 letters). AVOW means to make a formal or emphatic statement, usually in a public setting. DECLARE is similar in meaning, but implies a more formal and official announcement. Both words suggest that the speaker is making a clear and public statement about something, often with the intention of making it known to a wide audience.