The term 'strikes back' is often used to describe a situation in which someone reacts or retaliates against an action taken by another person. The two crossword solutions for this term are 'REACTS' (6 letters) and 'RETALIATES' (10 letters). Both words refer to a response to an action, but 'REACTS' implies a more immediate response, while 'RETALIATES' suggests a more calculated and deliberate response.