The term 'take in or take on' can be summarized by the crossword solution 'ADOPT'. Adoption is the legal process of taking in a child and becoming their legal guardian. It is often done by couples who are unable to have children of their own, but it can also be done by individuals or families who wish to provide a home for a child in need. Adoption is a way of providing a loving and supportive home for a child who may not have one otherwise.