The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word TAMPER
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Damage" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case damage = tamper.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 TAMPER mean?
TAMPER noun- A person or thing that tamps.
- A tool used to tamp something down, such as tobacco in a pipe.
- A railway vehicle used to tamp down ballast.
- An envelope of neutron-reflecting material in a nuclear weapon, used to delay the expansion of the reacting material and thus produce a longer-lasting and more energetic explosion.
- To make unauthorized or improper alterations, sometimes causing deliberate damage; to meddle (with something).
- To try to influence someone, usually in an illegal or devious way; to try to deal (with someone).
- To meddle (with something) in order to corrupt or pervert it.
- To involve oneself (in a plot, scheme, etc.).
- To attempt to practise or administer something (especially medicine) without sufficient knowledge or qualifications.
- (in professional sports) To discuss future contracts with a player, against league rules.