The term 'winds up' can have several meanings. In the context of a crossword puzzle, it could refer to the solutions 'ENDS, ' 'closes, ' 'CEASES, ' and 'excites.' 'ENDS' is a four-letter word that means to bring something to a conclusion or to terminate. 'Closes' is a six-letter word that means to shut or to stop operating. 'CEASES' is also a six-letter word that means to come to an end or to discontinue. Finally, 'excites' is a seven-letter word that means to stir up or to arouse. All of these words can be used to describe the phrase 'winds up, ' which generally means to finish or to conclude.