The term WADES (THROUGH) can be broken down into three crossword solutions: SLOGS (5 letters), PERUSES (7 letters), and FORDS (5 letters). SLOGS means to move slowly and laboriously, often through mud or water. PERUSES means to read or examine something carefully and thoroughly. FORDS means to cross a body of water by wading. All three words relate to the term WADES (THROUGH) in that they all involve moving through a difficult or challenging situation.