The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word FORGED
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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More clues leading to the result FORGED
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Counterfeit" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case counterfeit = forged.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 FORGED mean?
FORGED verb- To shape a metal by heating and hammering.
- To form or create with concerted effort.
- To create a forgery of; to make a counterfeit item of; to copy or imitate unlawfully.
- To make falsely; to produce, as that which is untrue or not genuine; to fabricate.
- (often as forge ahead) To move forward heavily and slowly (originally as a ship); to advance gradually but steadily; to proceed towards a goal in the face of resistance or difficulty.
- (sometimes as forge ahead) To advance, move or act with an abrupt increase in speed or energy.
- Fake (as documents); falsified.
- Fabricated by forging or at a forge, by working hot metal