The term STEWS (OVER) can be broken down into three crossword solutions: BROODS (6 letters), FRETS (5 letters), and AGONIZES (8 letters). BROODS means to sit on eggs in order to hatch them, or to think deeply about something. FRETS means to worry or be anxious about something. AGONIZES means to suffer extreme mental or physical pain. All three words are related to the idea of being in a state of distress or anxiety.