The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word WORDSMITH
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
W
O
R
D
S
M
I
T
H
More clues leading to the result WORDSMITH
- Crossword setter, maybe, having to receive gold medal
- Lakeland poet’s semi-legend we hear, a master of language
- Gold medal alongside pens for prolific writer
- Weapon maker hasn’t succeeded, another having mightier armoury
- Promise quiet entertaining Cambridge University author
- Author withholds gold award to serviceman
- News hits out about married poet, perhaps
- Extremely devious setter’s rising in value — Logodaedalus, say
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Crossword setter, maybe" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case crossword setter, maybe = wordsmith.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 WORDSMITH mean?
WORDSMITH noun- One who uses words skillfully.
- To apply craftsman-like skills to word use.