The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word FINER
F
I
N
E
R
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 FINER mean?
FINER adjective- Senses referring to subjective quality.
- Senses referring to objective quality.
- Behind the batsman and at a small angle to the line between the wickets.
- Subtle; thin; tenuous.
- One who fines or purifies.