The term 'turns tail' is an idiom that means to run away or retreat in fear. The crossword solutions for this term are WAGS (4 letters), RETREATS (8 letters), and FLEES (5 letters). WAGS is a verb meaning to move from side to side, often used to describe the movement of a dog's tail. Retreats is a noun meaning to withdraw from a dangerous or difficult situation. Flee is a verb meaning to run away quickly from a place or situation. All three words can be used to describe the action of turning tail.