Throwing one's hat in the ring is an idiom that means to formally declare oneself as a candidate for a position or competition. It originates from the sport of boxing, where a boxer would throw their hat into the ring to signify their willingness to fight. The crossword solution VIES is a 4 letter word meaning to compete or strive for something. Therefore, the term THROWS ONE'S HAT IN THE RING can be summarized as declaring oneself as a competitor or candidate for a position or competition.