The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word VOCATIVE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
V
O
C
A
T
I
V
E
More clues leading to the result VOCATIVE
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The straight part
We know that "Case" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case case = vocative.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 VOCATIVE mean?
VOCATIVE noun- (grammar) The vocative case
- (grammar) A word in the vocative case
- Something said to (or as though to) a particular person or thing; an entreaty, an invocation.
- Of or pertaining to calling; used in calling or vocation.
- (grammar) Used in address; appellative (said of that case or form of the noun, pronoun, or adjective, in which a person or thing is addressed). For example "Domine, O Lord"