The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word CUFFED
C
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F
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Clipped/as shirtsleeves often are" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case clipped/as shirtsleeves often are = cuffed.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 CUFFED mean?
CUFFED verb- To furnish with cuffs.
- To handcuff.
- To hit, as a reproach, particularly with the open palm to the head; to slap.
- To fight; to scuffle; to box.
- To buffet.
- Fitted with a cuff.