The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word TAKE-UP
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
T
A
K
E
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U
P
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 TAKE-UP mean?
TAKE-UP noun- The act of taking something up, by tightening, absorption, or reeling in.
- (machinery) That which takes up or tightens; specifically, a device in a sewing machine or loom for drawing up the slack thread as the needle rises, in completing a stitch.
- Acceptance (of a proposal, offer, request, etc.).