The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word INNUENDO
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
I
N
N
U
E
N
D
O
More clues leading to the result INNUENDO
- Something suggestive of ennui, waving with nod
- Pub open? Drug available within, it's suggested
- Suggestion made by boozer on due process
- Cast out unsanctioned organisation over slur
- Uniform done in another fashion after hotel’s suggestion
- Subtle hint: tune in regularly during pub function
- Hint of popular new university closing with nothing
- 12 nod off at subtle malicious comment
- Local party takes Rouen — “alternative backed out” slur
- Pub employee latterly involved in open slur
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "slur" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case slur = innuendo.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 INNUENDO mean?
INNUENDO noun- A derogatory hint or reference to a person or thing. An implication, intimation or insinuation.
- A rhetorical device with an omitted, but obvious conclusion, made to increase the force of an argument.
- Part of a pleading in cases of libel and slander, pointing out what and whom was meant by the libellous matter or description.
- To interpret (something libellous or slanderous) in terms of what was implied.