The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word OCULI
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
O
C
U
L
I
More clues leading to the result OCULI
- Windows computer upgrade — Linux originally — interrupting you there!
- Windows foremost in operating computers, usually Chinese units
- Abandoned oil cans made mostly into circular designs
- Round openings with no actual fit, regularly
- Copper – old metal frames for windows
- Retro company regularly built in circular windows
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "circular designs" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case circular designs = oculi.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 OCULI mean?
OCULI noun- A window or other opening that has an oval or circular shape (as of an eye).