The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word EPICENTER
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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 EPICENTER mean?
EPICENTER noun- The point on the land or water surface directly above the focus, or hypocentre, of an earthquake.
- The point on the surface of the earth directly above an underground explosion.
- The focal point of any activity, especially if dangerous or destructive.
- The geographical area in which an ongoing disaster, illness, crisis, or other destructive event is currently most severe.
- Of an earthquake: to have its epicentre (at a specified location).