Crossed one’s fingers

HOPED

Think of what you might do when silently wishing for a positive outcome, often paired with a small gesture. It’s a four-letter word that starts with the same sound as "heart’s desire."

"Crossed one’s fingers" is a common gesture people make when they’re wishing for good luck or hoping something will happen. The answer "HOPED" fits because crossing your fingers is a physical way to show you’re hoping for a positive outcome. It’s a straightforward clue where the action directly ties to the meaning of the word.