The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word MISCALLS
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
M
I
S
C
A
L
L
S
Buddy explains!
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 MISCALLS mean?
MISCALLS verb- To call (someone) bad names; to insult, abuse.
- To call (something) by the wrong name.
- To make a wrong call; to announce (one's hand of cards) incorrectly.