The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word KEPT
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
K
E
P
T
More clues leading to the result KEPT
- I let go legionnaire’s cap with tons being carried
- Cared for king’s naughty pet
- Celebrated skater upset occasionally
- Provided sustenance for leaders of Kenya – even provided tent
- ... not discarded by knight holding record
- Restrained King's excited pet
- Observed movement of pet chasing tail of buck
- Unbroken record held by knight
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Cared for" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case cared for = kept.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 KEPT mean?
KEPT verb- To continue in (a course or mode of action); not to intermit or fall from; to uphold or maintain.
- (heading) To hold the status of something.
- (heading) To hold or be held in a state.
- To wait for, keep watch for.
- To act as wicket-keeper.
- To take care; to be solicitous; to watch.
- To be in session; to take place.
- To observe; to adhere to; to fulfill; not to swerve from or violate.
- (by extension) To visit (a place) often; to frequent.
- To observe or celebrate (a holiday).