The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word AWARD
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
A
W
A
R
D
More clues leading to the result AWARD
- Decoration in one room
- Hostilities interrupting commercial settlement
- Fought to be heard with a gong
- Tony, perhaps, embarrassed having week away
- Conflict interrupting commercial settlement
- A protégé’s recognition of distinguished service
- A fight ending in gold medal, perhaps
- Fought to be heard alongside a gong?
- Retired lawman receiving fresh commendation
- A minor prize
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "payment" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case payment = award.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does AWARD mean?
AWARD noun- A judgment, sentence, or final decision. Specifically: The decision of arbitrators in a case submitted.
- The paper containing the decision of arbitrators; that which is warded.
- A trophy or medal; something that denotes an accomplishment, especially in a competition. A prize or honor based on merit.
- (Australia, NZ, industrial relations) A negotiated minimum wage that is set for a particular trade or industry; an industrial award.
- To give by sentence or judicial determination; to assign or apportion, after careful regard to the nature of the case; to adjudge
- To determine; to make or grant an award.
- To give (an award).
- To give (a person) an award.