The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word SCULL
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More clues leading to the result SCULL
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "row" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case row = scull.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 SCULL mean?
SCULL noun- A single oar mounted at the stern of a boat and moved from side to side to propel the boat forward.
- One of a pair of oars handled by a single rower.
- A small rowing boat, for one person.
- A light rowing boat used for racing by one, two, or four rowers, each operating two oars (sculls), one in each hand.
- To row a boat using a scull or sculls.
- To skate while keeping both feet in contact with the ground or ice.
- A skull cap. A small bowl-shaped helmet, without visor or bever.
- To drink the entire contents of (a drinking vessel) without pausing.
- The main bones of the head considered as a unit; including the cranium, facial bones, and mandible.
- A symbol for death; death's-head
- The mind or brain.
- A crust formed on the ladle, etc. by the partial cooling of molten metal.
- The crown of the headpiece in armour.
- A shallow bow-handled basket.
- A shoal of fish.
- The skua gull.