The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word PEARMAIN
P
E
A
R
M
A
I
N
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The straight part
We know that "Apple" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case apple = pearmain.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 PEARMAIN mean?
PEARMAIN noun- A type of pear.
- Any of various types of apple, having an elongated shape and often with streaky skin.