The term 'toward the middle' can be expressed in three different ways using crossword solutions. The first solution is 'INNER' which has five letters and means close to the center or core of something. The second solution is 'CENTRIC' which has seven letters and means having a focus on the center or middle. The third solution is 'centrally' which has nine letters and means in the middle or center. All three solutions refer to the same concept of being close to the middle or center.