The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word ABSOLVE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
A
B
S
O
L
V
E
More clues leading to the result ABSOLVE
- A bishop has to work out a puzzle free from guilt
- Clear guilt of able-bodied seaman, very into flatfish
- A second-rate remedy, free
- Excuse review of second-rate crossword, perhaps
- Pardon a crack about bishop
- Mariner loves crackers free from 12
- Excuse to work out topless, holding up muscles
- Sailors love convoluted excuse
- Muscle work out is clear
- Pardon sailor on crack
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "free" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case free = absolve.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 ABSOLVE mean?
ABSOLVE verb- To set free, release or discharge (from obligations, debts, responsibility etc.).
- To resolve; to explain; to solve.
- To pronounce free from or give absolution for a penalty, blame, or guilt.
- To pronounce not guilty; to grant a pardon for.
- To grant a remission of sin; to give absolution to.
- To remit a sin; to give absolution for a sin.
- To finish; to accomplish.
- To pass a course or test; to gain credit for a class; to qualify academically.