The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word STONING
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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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 STONING mean?
STONING verb- To pelt with stones, especially to kill by pelting with stones.
- To wall with stones.
- To remove a stone from (fruit etc.).
- To form a stone during growth, with reference to fruit etc.
- To intoxicate, especially with narcotics. (Usually in passive)
- To do nothing, to stare blankly into space and not pay attention when relaxing or when bored.
- To lap with an abrasive stone to remove surface irregularities.
- Lapidation: punishment by throwing stones, usually resulting in death