The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word MELLOWING
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
M
E
L
L
O
W
I
N
G
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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 MELLOWING mean?
MELLOWING verb- To make mellow; to relax or soften.
- To become mellow.
- The process of making or becoming mellow.