Take the reins is an idiom that means to take control of a situation. It is often used in the context of taking over leadership of a group or organization. The two crossword solutions for this term are LEAD (4 letters) and STEER (5 letters). LEAD implies taking charge and guiding others, while STEER implies guiding a course of action. Together, these two words suggest taking control of a situation and guiding it in a certain direction.