The term 'took up' can be summarized by three crossword solutions: embraced (8 letters), ADOPTED (7 letters), and gotinto (7 letters). Embraced means to accept or support something willingly and enthusiastically. ADOPTED means to take on or adopt something as one's own. Gotinto means to become involved in something. All three words imply that the person is taking on something new, whether it be an idea, a cause, or a project.