The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word FATHERED
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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More clues leading to the result FATHERED
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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 FATHERED mean?
FATHERED verb- To be a father to; to sire.
- To give rise to.
- To act as a father; to support and nurture.
- To provide with a father.
- To adopt as one's own.