Cryptic crossword clue
Defender sent packing fell flat 9

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word BACKFIRED

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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "fell flat" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case fell flat = backfired.
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 BACKFIRED mean?

BACKFIRED verb
  1. (of a gun, cannon, Bunsen burner, etc.) To fire in the opposite direction, for example due to an obstruction in the barrel.
  2. (of an engine) To experience a premature ignition of fuel or an ignition of exhaust gases, making a popping sound.
  3. To fail in a manner that brings down further misfortune.

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