The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word ASCETIC
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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More clues leading to the result ASCETIC
- Austere knight leaves climb in Cairngorms, primarily
- Frugal, like soccer team having had to spend pounds
- Hermit, say, is sour about Society
- Small vinegary drinks for abstainer, perhaps?
- Abstinent church admitted to wine consumption at first
- A quote’s arisen about Catholic recluse
- Hermit — a person having doubts spending penny
- With time, this Nirvana-seeker can become ecstatic
- Austere detectives in CIA sent back
- Article rejected quotes about conservative man leading disciplined life
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Austere" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case austere = ascetic.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 ASCETIC mean?
ASCETIC noun- One who is devoted to the practice of self-denial, either through seclusion or stringent abstinence.
- Of or relating to ascetics
- Characterized by rigorous self-denial or self-discipline; austere; abstinent; involving a withholding of physical pleasure.