The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word STAYING
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "going nowhere" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case going nowhere = staying.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 STAYING mean?
STAYING verb- To prop; support; sustain; hold up; steady.
- To support from sinking; to sustain with strength; to satisfy in part or for the time.
- To stop; detain; keep back; delay; hinder.
- To restrain; withhold; check; stop.
- To cause to cease; to put an end to.
- To put off; defer; postpone; delay; keep back.
- To hold the attention of.
- To bear up under; to endure; to hold out against; to resist.
- To wait for; await.
- To remain for the purpose of; to stay to take part in or be present at (a meal, ceremony etc.).
- To rest; depend; rely.
- To stop; come to a stand or standstill.
- To come to an end; cease.
- To dwell; linger; tarry; wait.
- To make a stand; to stand firm.
- To hold out, as in a race or contest; last or persevere to the end.
- To remain in a particular place, especially for a definite or short period of time; sojourn; abide.
- To wait; rest in patience or expectation.
- (used with on or upon) To wait as an attendant; give ceremonious or submissive attendance.
- To continue to have a particular quality.
- To live; reside
- To brace or support with a stay or stays
- To incline forward, aft, or to one side by means of stays.
- To tack; put on the other tack.
- To change; tack; go about; be in stays, as a ship.
- A stay or visit.