The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word COMFORTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
O
M
F
O
R
T
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Contents" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case contents = comforts.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 COMFORTS mean?
COMFORTS noun- Contentment, ease.
- Something that offers comfort.
- A consolation; something relieving suffering or worry.
- A cause of relief or satisfaction.
- To relieve the distress or suffering of; to provide comfort to.
- To make comfortable.
- To make strong; to invigorate; to fortify; to corroborate.
- To assist or help; to aid.