The term 'straightens out, in a way' can be solved by two crossword solutions: 'uncoils' (7 letters) and 'UNTWISTS' (8 letters). Both terms refer to the act of making something straight or orderly by undoing a twist or coil. Uncoiling is the process of releasing a coiled object, such as a rope or wire, from its twisted form. Untwisting is the process of reversing a twist, such as when one UNTWISTS a rope or a piece of fabric. Both terms are often used to describe the act of restoring order or structure to something that has become tangled or disorganized.