The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word OARLOCKS
O
A
R
L
O
C
K
S
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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 OARLOCKS mean?
OARLOCKS noun- A device attached to the gunwale of a rowboat to hold the oars in place while rowing.