The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word DESIGNATE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Sunday Telegraph
D
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S
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G
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A
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More clues leading to the result DESIGNATE
- Appointed period in which to put name on back of certificate
- Specify putting giants’ pants in river
- Select dress, oddly, that is invaded by insect
- European character breaks engagement for show
- Name a rude sign a teenager comprehends
- Choose to throw giants’ pants in river
- River full of swimming giants
- Appoint different agent after changing side
- Appoint gent with ideas, at work
- Call a local rent agent
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Appoint" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case appoint = designate.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 DESIGNATE mean?
DESIGNATE verb- To mark out and make known; to point out; to indicate; to show; to distinguish by marks or description
- To call by a distinctive title; to name.
- To indicate or set apart for a purpose or duty; — with to or for; to designate an officer for or to the command of a post or station.
- Designated; appointed; chosen.
- Used after a role title to indicate that the person has been selected but has yet to take up the role.