The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word SIDESTEPS
S
I
D
E
S
T
E
P
S
More clues leading to the result SIDESTEPS
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 SIDESTEPS mean?
SIDESTEPS noun- A step to the side.
- A motion, physical or metaphorical, to avoid or dodge something.
- To step to the side.
- To avoid or dodge.