The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word CYCLIC
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
Y
C
L
I
C
More clues leading to the result CYCLIC
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "following a regular pattern" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case following a regular pattern = cyclic.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 CYCLIC mean?
CYCLIC adjective- Characterized by, or moving in cycles, or happening at regular intervals.
- (of a compound) Having chains of atoms arranged in a ring.
- Having parts arranged in a whorl.
- (of a group) Being generated by only one element.
- (of a polygon) Able to be inscribed in a circle.