The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word SETTINGS
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
S
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More clues leading to the result SETTINGS
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 SETTINGS mean?
SETTINGS noun- The time, place and circumstance in which something (such as a story or picture) is set; context; scenario.
- The act of setting.
- A piece of metal in which a precious stone or gem is fixed to form a piece of jewelry.
- A level or placement that a knob or control is set to.
- The act of marking the position of game, as a setter does.
- Hunting with a setter.
- Something set in, or inserted.
- A piece of vocal or choral music composed for particular words (set to music).
- The mounting of a play, etc., for the stage.
- The direction of a current of wind.